As the holidays approach, a large number of people will be traveling to see their families. While this is a time of festivities and family fun for many, the increased number of drivers on the roads usually means a larger proportion of intoxicated drivers, leading to an increased risk of accidents and arrests for driving under the influence (DUI). The following short list of tips can keep you out of trouble and help you avoid being charged with a holiday DUI.
Do Not Drink and Drive
The most obvious way to avoid a DUI over the holidays is to either not drink at all or make sure you have a designated driver if you plan on drinking. If you do not have anyone that can drive you, call a taxi or simply stay put until you are completely sober. Not only is this good for you, but this also keeps the roads safe for everyone else.
Stay Under the Legal Limit
A person can be charged with a DUI if they operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Even if your BAC registers at a 0.05, you can still be charged with driving while ability impaired (DWAI). If you absolutely must drive, make sure that your BAC is under this level before getting behind the wheel.
There are several ways to keep you BAC down, including:
- Eating while drinking
- Drinking water
- Pacing yourself
- Waiting before driving
With that being said, if you cause an accident with any alcohol in your system, you can still face harsh penalties and a possible DUI arrest. Since every person is different, there is no clear cut formula to help you stay sober. Commercially sold breathalyzers can be an excellent tool to help you determine your BAC, though their accuracy can be questionable at times. Generally speaking, it takes very little alcohol in order for a person to be deemed legally drunk, requiring you to exercise extreme caution.
Drive Safely
While driving safely is encouraged in all situations, being extra careful when driving with any level of alcohol in your system is particularly important. Don’t blow through stop signs, speed up to catch a yellow light, or make risky maneuvers. Eliminating all distractions like cell phones and loud music can help you focus on the road and stay sharp.
While these tips can help you avoid a holiday DUI, being pulled over at the wrong time is always a possibility. If you should find yourself arrested for DUI over the holidays, Denver DUI Attorney Chris Cessna can provide you with hard-hitting representation to improve your chances of securing a desirable outcome for your situation. With more than 20 years of successful experience, your case is sure to be in good hands. To retain the powerful counsel you deserve, call his office at (303) 720-7280 or request a complimentary case evaluation online.