It’s no secret that drinking and driving is a dangerous mix. In fact, it’s one of the leading causes of death on roads. Not to mention, it’s also illegal. As a result, you could face a fine, jail time, or even lose your license if caught drunk driving.
So, what can you do to avoid drinking and driving? Here are five tips that will help keep you safe when you’re out partying with friends.
Have a Designated Driver
This is probably the most obvious solution, but it’s also the most effective. When you’re going out drinking, designate a sober driver who will be responsible for getting everyone home safely.
You can take turns being the designated driver or hire a professional service like Uber or Lyft. Either way, ensure there’s always a sober driver so you can avoid drinking and driving.
However, don’t just choose any random person to be your designated driver. Make sure it’s someone responsible and won’t drink alcohol themselves.
Some of the crucial things to consider when choosing a designated driver among friends are:
- Can they resist temptations? You want someone strong enough to say no to peer pressure.
- Do they have a good driving record? Of course, you don’t want someone with a history of accidents or speeding tickets.
- Are they responsible? This is the most important quality you should look for in a designated driver. You need someone who will not only avoid taking alcohol but also get everyone home safely.
- Do they have a valid driver’s license and car insurance? Your designated driver should also be legal to drive and have insurance in case of an accident.
Use Public Transportation
One of the things you’ll learn when you consult an attorney for drunk driving collisions is that there are always other options for getting home besides driving yourself.
You can use public transportation, call a taxi or Uber, or ask a friend to pick you up.
All of these options are better than getting behind the wheel when you’ve been drinking.
Therefore, if you anticipate a night of heavy drinking, make sure you have a solid plan for getting home before you start drinking.
Stay Where You Are
If you find yourself at a friend’s house or bar and you’ve had too much to drink, it’s always best to stay where you are.
Most people are happy to let you sleep on their couch or in their guest room if it means keeping you off the road.
So, if you don’t have a way to get home, don’t hesitate to ask your friends or the staff at the establishment if you can stay the night.
However, if you decide to stay somewhere, make sure you have a clear plan for getting home the next day. Also, keep all your valuable items with you to avoid any mishaps.
Avoid Getting a Ride From Someone Who Has Been Drinking
You don’t have to be the one driving to get pulled over for a DUI. You can also be charged if you’re in the car with someone who has been drinking. Remember, you have to be quite vigilant while assessing a specific situation. As a result, it is essential to understand the situation.
So, if you know that someone has been drinking, do not get in the car with them, no matter how much they beg or plead. It’s just not worth it.
Instead, convince them to let someone sober drive them, or better yet, take their keys away and opt for both of you to take a cab home.
Avoid Drinking When You’re Alone or Set Limits
Another way to avoid getting a DUI is never to drink when you’re by yourself.
This way, you won’t be tempted to get behind the wheel after having a few drinks. If you must drink when you’re alone, ensure you have a plan to get home safely without driving.
For instance, you can leave your car at home and take a cab or public transportation to the bar.
Alternatively, if you’ll be drinking, ensure you set a limit for yourself before you start. Then, stop drinking once you reach your limit and switch to water or another non-alcoholic beverage.
This will help ensure you don’t drink too much and make the mistake of getting behind the wheel while drunk.
Wrapping Up
Avoiding drinking and driving is crucial to keeping yourself and others safe. By following the tips above, you can help ensure you never find yourself in a situation where you’re tempted to drive drunk. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. So next time you’re out having fun, make sure you have a plan to avoid drinking and driving. You’ll thank yourself later.
