Missouri lawmaker apologizes for DWI arrest

March 07, 2014 (Press-News.org) Missouri lawmaker apologizes for DWI arrest

Article provided by Harper, Evans, Wade & Netemeyer
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Like many unpleasant events in life, a drunk driving arrest is something that many people think will never happen to them -- until it does. The recent arrest of a Missouri lawmaker for suspected driving while intoxicated underscores the point that nearly anyone can find themselves in this situation. Regardless of whether the incident stems from a single lapse in judgment or a long-term pattern of behavior, the consequences of a DWI arrest can be serious and potentially life altering.

According to a report by the Associated Press, Missouri Representative Steve Hodges (D-East Prairie) was arrested in Jefferson City on suspicion of DWI in the early morning hours of February 6, 2014. Hodges, who was elected to the Missouri House of Representatives in 2006, issued a statement the following day in which he apologized for the arrest.

As reported by the AP, Hodges wrote that he had recently "experienced several highly stressful, life-changing events" and that he intends to take "steps to prevent any similar errors in judgment in the future."

Stress often a factor in DWI arrests

Because many people consume alcohol as a way to cope with stress, the risk of being arrested for DWI often increases when a person has recently experienced a stressful life event such as a divorce, job loss or a death in the family.

According to research conducted jointly by the Vermont Alcohol Research Center, the California Department of Motor Vehicles, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, people convicted of DWI are more likely than other individuals to drink as a mechanism for coping with stress and tension. Similarly, drivers convicted of DWI are more likely to report experiencing stress related to their jobs, finances or families.

The relationship between stress and driving under the influence may be especially pronounced among female drivers. According to a report by the Traffic Injury Research Foundation, which looked specifically at risk factors for drunk driving among women, a vast majority of female drivers surveyed said that their DWI arrests were precipitated by a stressful event such as a domestic dispute, child custody battle or job loss.

Get legal help if arrested for DWI in Missouri

If you are arrested for suspected DWI in Missouri, it is imperative that you seek help from an experienced DWI defense lawyer at your earliest opportunity. An attorney with a history of success defending clients against DWI charges can work with you to evaluate your legal options and choose a course of action designed to maximize your chance of an optimal outcome.