Getting pulled over for a DUI is one of the scarier things that can happen to someone. The immediate threat of a charge for driving under the influence can cause people to act nervously and in ways they normally wouldn’t, even if they have not had much to drink. While the best way to avoid a DUI is to abstain from drinking, this isn’t always a choice individuals make around the libation-filled holiday season. If you do go out for a drink or attend a party where there is social drinking involved, here are five tips for avoiding a DUI.
5 Tips for Avoiding a DUI This New Year’s Eve
1. Don’t drink and drive
Ok, so this tip is a no-brainer, but many drivers believe they can outsmart breathalyzers and field sobriety tests despite being over the legal limit. Although you may believe you are fine to drive even after having a few drinks, remember that you could be putting yourself and others at risk. It’s important to keep in mind that you don’t need to be over the legal limit of 0.08 to get arrested for a DUI either — being affected by alcohol and choosing to drive is grounds for legal action.
2. Be responsible about drinking
The holidays are a time when many of us attend parties where alcohol is involved. If you do plan on drinking, be responsible about it. Make sure to eat plenty of food before drinking alcohol as food slows the absorption of alcohol, preventing a spike in intoxication. Drink plenty of water and most importantly, know your limits.
3. Forget the ‘one drink an hour’ saying
Speaking of drinking responsibly, don’t rely on the ‘one drink an hour’ saying or anything similar. Ultimately, everyone reacts differently to alcohol, so the rule of drinking one drink per hour is not credible. Alcohol is metabolized differently based on gender, weight, tolerance, and the like, so once again, be responsible and know your limits.
4. Get a ride even if you live close
Many impaired drivers opt to drive home because they live just a few miles away. Unfortunately, this does mean getting home safe or DUI-free is guaranteed. No matter how far away you live, there are plenty of affordable, safe ways to get home. Call a friend, a cab, or a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft — all of these are cheaper than a DUI.
More helpful resources on DUIs:
How Do I Reinstate My License After a DUI Conviction?
What to Expect After a DUI Arrest In St. Petersburg
Do I Qualify for DUI Accident Compensation?
5. Have a reliable designated driver
Having a designated driver isn’t always a foolproof plan if he or she isn’t committed to not drinking. If you appoint someone as a designated driver, make sure it is someone who is reliable and won’t consume alcohol.
Get Legal Help Following Your Tampa Bay DUI Arrest
With New Year’s Eve approaching, the team at Clark Hartpence Law hopes you have a safe holiday. If you find yourself in need of legal assistance following a DUI arrest in the Tampa Bay area, call us without delay. A simple mistake of having a little too much to drink before getting behind the wheel doesn’t have to ruin your life or your livelihood if your rights are properly protected.
If you or someone you love was involved in an accident, call us at (855) 680-4911 or schedule a free consultation.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney/client relationship.