How To Avoid Holiday DUI Charges

The holidays are once again here and with them comes the increased risk of a DUI charge.  More than any other time of year, the holiday season is a time for saturation patrols and roadblocks that lead to numerous DUI arrests and convictions.  It is important to take the right steps to protect yourself from these serious charges during the holidays.  Here are some tips to help you avoid getting a DUI or to handle these charges successfully if you do:

• Do not drive if you drink. This may seem self-evident, but many people are confused about just how much alcohol they can consume and still drive safely.  The fact is that any amount of alcohol consumption, or any prescription drug use, can lead to a DUI charge.  There is very little chance that you can correctly “guess” how much alcohol you can safely consume, since the amount can change so rapidly given various factors.  What you eat, how tired you are and even the time of day can affect your reaction to alcohol.  It is best to go “cold turkey” if you are driving.
• Choose a reliable designated driver. Some groups appoint a designated driver but then are surprised when that person disappears early from the party or drinks to the point of being unable to drive.  When you choose a designated driver, be sure that it is someone who is reliable and takes this responsibility seriously.
• Consider alternative transportation. There are many rideshare apps available today that will allow you to instantly call for a ride, and there are also many cab companies that beef up their driving fleet over the holidays to handle the extra demand.  Some police departments will also provide emergency transportation if you are stuck at a party or bar with no ride and are not sober enough to drive.  Consider your options and try to make arrangements before you need transportation.
• Stay over. Another good alternative to driving while intoxicated is to stay in one place long enough to sober up.  Remember that sober means you have metabolized the alcohol in your system completely, so this may take some time.  The average person metabolizes about an ounce of alcohol an hour, but your reaction time may be slower or faster.  Make plans to spend the night if you have more than a few drinks.

If you are pulled over or charged with DUI, call the experienced defense attorneys at Oswalt Law Group in Phoenix for help.