Have you ever been involved in drunk driving? If you’re planning to go out with friends and enjoy the night with drinks, you should always remember to drink moderately. Keep in mind, even a single glass of alcohol implies that you shouldn’t go behind the wheel. The rationale is straightforward – this is to avoid worst cases of drunk driving. It can be you or even your family members. Most of the time, drinking and driving can be avoided as long as you exercise some precautions and safety tips to help you prevent a negative situation from happening.

1. Plan your drinking with a designating driver

Planning can help you avoid the risk of getting into an accident. If you plan on drinking, it’s best if you designate a driver who will drive you home after a night of drinking. Before you start consuming alcohol, decide that you will not drive. Also, you need to look for a designated driver who will not drink. You can tap a friend who knows how to drive responsibly.

2. Don’t bring the car with you

When you leave your car at home, there’ll be a guarantee that you’ll not operate it. By not bringing your car, you’ll not have a choice to drive, thereby minimizing the likelihood of road accidents due to drinking and driving.

3. Find another mode of transportation

Taking public transportation such as a bus, train or even a taxi can be the best way to avoid driving while you’re drunk. For instance, you can choose any mode of transportation that works for you. You only have to consider your routes to make the most out of some public transits. If you’re taking one, you can be accompanied by a friend to ensure your safety until you get home. In most cases, having a public ride home is much cheaper than being involved in a DUI accident which can be a depressing experience for you.

4. Give your keys to a friend

After a full drinking session, it’s tempting to go behind the wheels. However, doing it means you’re also putting yourself and the lives of others at risk for a potential road collision due to drunk driving. If you want to stay safe from the moment you drink until you go home, give your keys to your friend or the best bet is to hide your keys so you’ll not be tempted to drive yourself home.

5. Be mindful of the symptoms of drunkenness

Having a drinking spree with friends is indeed enjoyable and relaxing. However, excessive alcohol consumption is also harmful. If you’ve been drinking all night long, don’t forget to pay attention to your body, especially on your level of drunkenness. It’s important to keep in mind that when you’re drunk, there are signs of slower brain function and impairment resulting in the inability to maneuver your car properly. The symptoms that you should be wary of include blurred vision, poor balance, and abnormal behaviors.

6. Consider the advice of your friends about not driving

If you’re too drunk, you’ll always have this one friend who will advise you not to drive. In this kind of situation, it’s more beneficial on your part if you try to listen to your friend. Besides, what they’re telling you is for your benefit and safety. When you consider their advice, you’ll be away from any dangerous situation.

7.  Acknowledge that you need help

When excessive alcohol has taken over yourself, it’s best if you stay where you are and accept help from someone. Considering these kinds of circumstances, there will always be people who are willing to help you go home safely. You can acknowledge assistance by taking a ride from a friend or ask a bartender to get a taxi to drive you home.

8. Consider calling your loved ones

If you’re too drunk and help is not available, consider having an emergency backup plan by calling your loved ones. While you may disturb them, they will always be happy to help you because what matters most is your safety. That’s why don’t think twice to seek help from them than forcing yourself to drive even if you’re too drunk to do so.

9. Always be responsible

Before you begin drinking, you should always be aware of your limitations. In other words, don’t go beyond your limits and learn how to drink responsibly. Be responsible for your decisions. When you’re drunk driving, you’re also compromising your safety and the safety of other motorists on the road. But regardless of the situation, drinking and driving is a recipe for disaster and will bring nothing helpful for your life. In the end, always make safe decisions that you’ll never regret for the rest of your life.

Many times, drinking and driving will only endanger your life. Furthermore, driving under the influence (of alcohol) is considered a crime – and if you get caught, you may face long-term legal consequences that may affect your emotional and financial health in the long run. Should you require legal assistance, you can get in touch with Shapiro & Sternlieb, LLC who can explain the legal implications of drinking and driving.

Gary Sterling is a writer contributing for Shapiro & Sternlieb, LLC. His passion for learning about various niches had him stumble upon legal and medical niches, which constantly piqued his interests. He strives to make sure his pieces are not just informative, but entertaining to read as well. He likes to read fantasy novels whenever has free time.