It’s easy to get caught up in the moment and forget that drinking and driving is not only illegal but incredibly dangerous. If you’re going to drink, don’t drive. It’s that simple. Even if you’ve had just one drink, your ability to operate a vehicle is severely impaired.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drunk driving killed 10,142 in 2019, with the numbers expected to increase in the subsequent years. That’s why it’s essential to have transport arrangements in place before you go out drinking.
Here are a few tips to help prevent yourself from making a mistake:
Have a designated driver
A designated driver is someone who agrees to abstain from drinking for the night in order to drive his or her friends home safely. This simple measure can save lives. So if you’re going out for a night in town with friends, be sure to designate a driver ahead of time.
Take public transportation or a taxi home
Another option is to take public transportation such as a bus or train. This can be convenient if there’s a stop near your home or final destination. Alternatively, go with the more convenient way-call a taxi. You can use taxi services like Uber or Lyft to get a ride home from wherever you are. Just download the app and request a driver. They will come and pick you up and then drop you off at your destination.
Additional Tips
These tips also help:
- Find a safe place to sleep off your buzz, like a friend’s couch or a hotel room.
- Pace yourself. Drink slowly and alternate between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. This will help you stay hydrated and will prevent you from getting too inebriated.
- Eat something. Drinking on an empty stomach can make you drunker than you would otherwise. Eat a big meal before you start drinking or snack on some food while you’re drinking.
Despite your best intentions, mistakes can still happen. If you do find yourself in the unfortunate position of being charged with DUI, it is important to have experienced legal guidance to give yourself the best chance at a successful outcome.