Preventing a DUI
The penalties for driving under the influence are harsh—they may include jail time, probation, expensive fines, and the loss of driving privileges. And, along with these penalties comes the stigma of being a criminal and a drunk driver.Preventing a DUI can be as simple as designating a sober driver. A designated driver is a person who agrees not to consume alcohol in order to drive others home. Many bars and restaurants offer free non-alcoholic drinks to designated drivers.
In the last year, designated drivers may have saved approximately 50,000 lives and kept thousands more people from being injured by a drunk driver. Each year, the number of Americans who use or act as a designated driver increases. In fact, at least 75 million people are driven home by or serve as a designated driver every year.
What are the benefits of a designated driver? First of all, a designated driver helps family and friends avoid arrest, fines, and jail. In addition, the designated driver also helps prevent injuries and deaths.
It is important to plan ahead when choosing a designated driver. Prior to any event that involves drinking, the group should decide beforehand who will abstain from alcohol. It is also a good idea to take turns serving as the designated driver.
Selecting a designated driver prevents any chance of impaired driving, as that person consumes no alcohol. In addition, it doesn’t require the driver or passengers to decide if someone is too intoxicated to drive.
Another way to prevent a DUI is by keeping your intoxicated friends from driving home. While it may be uncomfortable, you can use humor to get the keys from your friend. If that doesn’t work, try to locate the individual’s keys while he or she is busy.
If there is no designated driver, consider another form of transportation. For example, you can call a cab to take you home—and the cost of a taxi ride is much less than the cost of a drunk-driving charge.
If the party is at a friend’s house, you may also ask to stay over and sleep on the couch until you are sober enough to drive in the morning.
Preventing a DUI is much easier than facing a DUI charge. Utilize these tips and you can avoid the penalties that come along with a drunk-driving arrest.
