How DUIs Increase During the Holidays and How Bail Bonds Can Help
Dilber Jimenez • November 1, 2024
The holiday season is officially upon us! It is a time for gatherings, celebrations, and travel. However, it’s also a time when DUI (Driving Under the Influence) arrests spike. With the festive atmosphere often comes an increase in alcohol consumption, which, combined with more people on the roads, can lead to a higher risk of impaired driving. Understanding this seasonal trend and how bail bond services can assist if a loved one faces a DUI charge can be invaluable for families during the holidays.
Why DUI Arrests Increase During Thanksgiving
The Thanksgiving holiday is one of the busiest travel periods of the year. People are not only driving to see family and friends but also attending various gatherings where alcohol is commonly served. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the days surrounding Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve are among the most dangerous for DUI-related crashes and arrests. Law enforcement agencies nationwide increase their presence during these times, with targeted DUI checkpoints and patrols to prevent impaired driving and promote road safety.
Several factors contribute to this increase in DUI incidents:
- Social Gatherings: The holiday season is filled with parties, dinners, and gatherings where alcohol flows freely. Often, individuals may not consider alternative transportation or underestimate how much they’ve had to drink.
- Stress and Fatigue: The holidays can be a stressful time, with many people experiencing fatigue from travel, work pressures, and family obligations. Fatigue, combined with even minimal alcohol intake, can impair judgment and increase the risk of DUI incidents.
- Lack of Transportation Options: Many areas still have limited public transportation, and holiday gatherings in rural areas may not have access to rideshares or taxis, leading more people to take the risk of driving after drinking.
The Immediate Consequences of a DUI Arrest
A DUI arrest can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience, especially during the holiday season. The consequences of a DUI are severe and can include hefty fines, loss of driving privileges, a criminal record, and even jail time. For families, the impact is emotional and financial, as bail and attorney fees can add up quickly.
For those arrested over the holiday weekend, the timing can also mean court appearances and processing delays, as many courts operate on limited hours around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. This can extend the time a loved one spends in custody, adding to the stress for families during an already challenging season.
How Bail Bond Services Can Help
If a family member or friend is arrested for DUI during the holidays, bail bond services can play a crucial role in helping them secure a release from jail. Here’s how bail bonds can assist in these situations:
- Quick Release: Bail bondsmen work around the clock, even on holidays, to secure quick releases. This can be especially helpful during holiday weekends when traditional court processes may be delayed. A bail bond agency will work to post bail quickly, allowing your loved one to spend the holiday at home rather than behind bars.
- Financial Relief: The cost of bail can be substantial, especially for a DUI charge. Bail bond services typically charge a percentage of the total bail amount, which can be more affordable than paying the full bail upfront. This can ease the financial burden on families, especially during a time of year when expenses may already be high.
- Guidance Through the Process: DUI cases often require strict court appearances, mandatory check-ins, and other legal requirements. Bail bond agents are familiar with the legal system and can help families navigate the process, ensuring that the person charged meets all necessary obligations.
- Maintaining Privacy: A DUI arrest can be embarrassing and may impact personal or professional reputations. By working with a bail bond agency, families can secure a release with less public exposure, as the process is handled discreetly and professionally.
Preparing for the Holidays: Safety First
While bail bond services are there to help in case of emergencies, the best approach is to take preventative steps. If you or your family plan on celebrating with alcohol this holiday season, consider the following safety tips:
- Designate a Driver: Decide in advance who will be the designated driver or plan to use a rideshare service if you’ll be drinking.
- Limit Alcohol Intake: Remember, even a small amount of alcohol can impair judgment. Make a conscious effort to monitor your intake, especially if you plan to drive.
- Stay Overnight: If the gathering is far from home, consider arranging to stay overnight with friends or family.
- Avoid Driving Late at Night: Late nights increase the risk of fatigue, which can make impaired driving even more dangerous.
DUIs tend to increase during the holiday season, making it a challenging time for families who find themselves dealing with an unexpected arrest. Angels Bail Bonds can help you understand the risks, provide a proper plan, and offer crucial support to secure a quick release, ease the financial strain, and guide families through the legal process. With a bail bond agency’s help, families can focus on moving forward and making the most of the holiday season despite the challenges.
We hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday season!
When someone you love is arrested for the first time, it can feel overwhelming. At Angels Bail Bonds, we help first-time families every single day.
Tax season is one of the few times each year when families receive a financial boost—but what happens if a loved one is arrested and you’re waiting on your refund? Can you use that refund to pay bail? Should you? fundsWhat are your options if the money haven’t arrived yet? At Angels Bail Bonds, we help families across Raleigh and Wake County navigate both the emotional and financial stress of an arrest. This guide explains how your tax refund can help, alternative payment solutions, and smart steps to take during an unexpected legal situation. Can You Use Your Tax Refund to Pay Bail? Yes—your tax refund can absolutely be used to pay bail or a bail bond fee . Many families rely on their refund to cover urgent expenses, including helping a loved one get out of jail quickly. However, whether you should use your refund depends on: How fast you need the release Whether you have the cash on hand Whether it makes more sense to use a bail bondsman instead of paying full bail yourself Bail can range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on the charges. Paying full bail upfront might not be necessary—or financially wise. Using a Bail Bond Instead of Paying Full Bail
Every year, thousands of people are arrested while visiting friends and family—or even just passing through another county or state. An unexpected arrest far from home can be overwhelming, especially during the busiest time of year.
Preparation can make all the difference in how your case is handled and how confident you feel walking into the courtroom. We’ve helped hundreds of clients navigate this process successfully.
Facing a domestic violence (DV) charge in North Carolina is a serious matter that can have immediate consequences—even before your case goes to trial. If you or a loved one has been arrested on a DV-related charge, it’s important to understand how North Carolina law treats these cases, how bail is set, and what role protective orders and judge discretion can play in the process. Domestic Violence Charges in North Carolina Domestic violence cases in North Carolina typically involve allegations of assault, threats, harassment, stalking, or other criminal behavior against a spouse, partner, family member, or household member. Even a misdemeanor DV charge is handled differently than other criminal charges due to the safety concerns of alleged victims. The Bail Process: What Makes DV Different When someone is arrested for a domestic violence offense, the bail process is not as straightforward as it is for many other charges. North Carolina law (specifically N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15A-534.1 ) requires special rules for setting bond in these cases. 48-Hour Rule In DV cases, bond is usually not set immediately after arrest. Instead, the law requires that only a judge—not a magistrate—can set conditions of release within the first 48 hours of arrest. If no judge is available within that time frame, a magistrate may step in after the 48-hour window. Although individuals are generally required to wait up to 48 hours before appearing before a judge, this is not always the case. For example, if the court is in session the following day after the arrest, the accused may be brought before a judge sooner. Judge’s Discretion At the bond hearing, the judge has broad discretion to decide: The type of bond (secured, unsecured, cash, or surety). The amount of bond, depending on the seriousness of the allegations, prior criminal history, and risk factors. Additional release conditions, such as no-contact orders , electronic monitoring, or substance abuse restrictions. Due to this discretion, outcomes can vary significantly from case to case. Protective Orders and Bail Protective orders—commonly known as 50B orders in North Carolina—play a critical role in DV cases. A judge may issue a protective order that restricts contact between the defendant and the alleged victim. These restrictions can directly impact the bail process. For example: Violating a protective order after release can lead to immediate re-arrest and new charges. Judges often consider protective orders when deciding whether the defendant poses a threat to the alleged victim or the community. What to Expect at a Bail Hearing If you or your loved one is facing a DV bond hearing in North Carolina, here are key things to know: The judge will review the allegations, criminal history, and risk of harm to the alleged victim. A bail bondsman can help secure release once the bond is set, provided all court-ordered conditions are met. The court may add strict conditions —such as staying away from a residence, avoiding certain people, or surrendering firearms. Why This Matters Domestic violence charges carry heavy legal and personal consequences, and the first 48 hours after arrest are often the most stressful. Understanding how the law works in North Carolina can help families prepare for what to expect and make informed decisions about bail. If you or someone you care about has been arrested on a domestic violence charge, working with Angel Bail Bonds can provide guidance and support during this challenging process. Please call us at (919) 280-1830. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) for confidential support and assistance.
A new semester comes with a noticeable uptick in arrests. Each fall, local law enforcement agencies see patterns that are tied directly to the back-to-school season.
Dealing with an arrest or court date in North Carolina can be stressful. As your trusted Raleigh bail bonds agency, Angels Bail Bonds created a guide to help you.
Get to know your bail bondsman in North Carolina, Dilber Jimenez.
Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most common reasons for arrest across North Carolina. The consequences can be severe: fines, license suspension, jail time, and a criminal record that follows you for years. At Angels Bail Bonds, we understand that people make mistakes. We're here to provide support, fast bail service, and clear guidance when you or someone you care about is facing a DUI charge in North Carolina. The Numbers Behind the Charges DUI arrests in Wake County alone (where Raleigh is located) majorly affect local jail bookings. In fact: In 2023, the Wake County Police Department reported over 100 DUI-related arrests DUI arrests tend to spike during holidays and significant events (Memorial Day, July 4th, New Year's Eve) Young adults (ages 21–34) make up a large portion of those arrested for impaired driving With Raleigh’s growing population and nightlife scene, law enforcement is increasing efforts to crack down on impaired driving through sobriety checkpoints and patrols. What Happens After a DUI Arrest People arrested for DUI are typically taken to jail. From there: They undergo booking and processing A judge may set a bond amount based on the charge and criminal history Once the bond is set, they can be released with the help of a licensed bail bondsman This is where Angels Bail Bonds steps in. Why Choose Angels Bail Bonds? 24/7 Bail Services across North Carolina Fast response times—we understand the urgency Transparent fees and no hidden costs Compassionate, non-judgmental service during a stressful time Local knowledge of the legal system We’re not just a bail company—we’re a support system when you need it most. Preventing DUIs: A Community Responsibility While we’re here to help after an arrest, we also believe in prevention. DUI-related incidents are entirely avoidable with the proper planning: Always designate a sober driver or use a rideshare service Know your limits and avoid getting behind the wheel impaired Look out for friends and loved ones—don’t let someone drive drunk Remember, a DUI in North Carolina can cost $10,000 or more in fines, legal fees, insurance increases, and lost time Need Help Now? Call Angels Bail Bonds If you or a loved one has been arrested for DUI, don’t wait. We’re available 24/7 to help get you out quickly and back to what matters most. Serving Raleigh areas and beyond. Call Now: (919) 280 1830 Angels Bail Bonds—Because everyone deserves a second chance.
As the days get longer and the temperatures rise, one thing is certain: summer is when things start to heat up in more ways than one. Backyard parties turn into block parties. Beach days turn into bonfire nights. Concerts, festivals, late-night cruises, and spontaneous road trips become the norm. With all that fun comes excitement, freedom… and sometimes, a little too much alcohol. Things happen if it's too many drinks at a holiday cookout, a bar fight that escalates, or a night out that goes sideways. And when they do, we’re here. The Summer Effect: Why Arrests Spike Summer tends to bring a spike in arrests across the country. Why? More public gatherings = more chances for conflict Heat-induced tempers flare faster DUI charges tend to rise with more weekend partying Vacation vibes can lower inhibitions and raise risk-taking Even good people make mistakes when the summer energy hits. That’s where Angels Bail Bonds in Raleigh, North Carolina, comes in. When Things Go Sideways, We’ve Got You At Angels Bail Bonds, we’re not here to judge but to help. We’re available 24/7 to get your loved ones out fast, no matter the charge. We know the ins and outs of the legal system in and around Raleigh, and work quickly to reunite families and keep the summer moving forward. Save Our Number Before the First BBQ You never know when you might need a bail bondsman. If summer gets too wild, having us on speed dial could make all the difference. Quick, confidential, and professional—that’s our promise. So go ahead, enjoy your summer. Just remember, if things get out of hand, you’ve got a team that’s just one call away. Amgels Bail Bonds – Fast. Friendly. Reliable. Available 24/7 – Call Now: (919) 280-1830.
