‘Tis the season of DUI convictions once again. During the holidays, with all the gatherings of family, friends and work parties, there tends to be a lot of drinking. This also leads to an uptick in arrests for drunk driving and alcohol-related crashes throughout the nation. As you may have already seen on the news where you live, local law enforcement usually step up DUI identification and enforcement during this time period with the use of more patrol cars on the road, strategic checkpoints and other methods.
To avoid a trip to a DUI lawyer, here are five things you can do to reduce your chances of getting a DUI this holiday season.
Stay sober
If you don’t drink at all, you can’t be arrested for DUI. You’re also able to be a designated driver for others at events where you are not consuming any alcohol.
Have a solid designated driver
If you are planning on drinking at an event and have a designated driver, make sure the person you picked is someone you trust and who won’t suddenly decide to drink while you are there.
Use taxis or ride-sharing services
Although it can be a more expensive option than a designated driver, using taxis or a ride-sharing service such as Lyft or Uber is still far cheaper than a DUI case, which will you cost you in legal fees even if you’re not convicted. Keep in mind that during peak times and big events, taxis may take a long time to get to you, and ride-sharing service prices may skyrocket because they are driven by area demand.
Stay with a friend or in a hotel
If you live far away from an event you are going to attend and drink at but a friend lives close by, see if that friend will allow you to walk over to their place afterward and stay the night. Alternatively, if no friend is nearby, you could consider booking a hotel room that is situated somewhere within walking distance.
Host an event yourself
Although it may create more work, you can avoid the temptation of drinking and driving by having a holiday event at your home. If you decide to do this, be ready to open your home to a person who has had too much to drink and can’t drive and making driving arrangements for guests who enjoyed themselves a little too much.
A DUI conviction can cause you problems in all areas of your life, from your work to your family and your finances. If you are facing a DUI charge–which can result in jail and fines, along with other punishments and requirements you’ll have to meet–talk to a DUI lawyer Denver, CO trusts for help with your case. Your attorney can explain what is going to happen, give you a realistic outlook on your case, explain your options and help prepare your defense.
Thanks to Richard J. Banta, P.C. for their insight into criminal law and avoiding holiday DUIs.
