No one goes out of their way to get a DUI (driving under the influence). Well, at least that is the case most of the time.
That said are you doing all you can to steer clear of a DUI?
Keep in mind that a DUI charge and conviction can impact you in many ways.
First, your professional career can take a hit when convicted. Even if not relying on your vehicle much for work, the idea you drove under the influence shows bad judgment.
Second, your personal life can take a downward spiral too.
Family and friends may question your mindset, wondering how you’d put yourself in such a bad position.
Last, your driving privileges may go away for a period of time. If so, it will prove harder to get around. When you throw in potential fines and court costs, your finances could take a hit too.
So, are you doing all you can to make sure drinking and driving never go together in your life?
Be an Educated Driver
As millions have discovered, driving 100 percent sober can be difficult enough. Now, imagine all the added challenges when you’re buzzed and behind the wheel.
Although one hopes you are a sound driver, keep these tips in mind to best steer clear of a DUI:
1. Commonsense
Always note nothing good can come from a DUI.
With that being the case you want to make sure to use commonsense always when getting behind the wheel.
As an example, you go out with the gang from work for Happy Hour. You hadn’t planned on drinking much, yet one thing leads to another. Before you know it, you’re feeling buzzed. Instead of letting a sober co-worker drive you home or take an Uber or Lyft, you decide to chance it. Next thing you know, there are flashing red lights in your rearview mirror. Remember, this all could have not been an issue if you drove clear of getting buzzed in the first place.
While it is fine to want to have fun, don’t make a decision you will end up regretting for years to come.
2. Medications
Individuals will forget the dangers of mixing alcohol and prescription medications.
Say you are on a prescription for any number of conditions and you decide to have an alcoholic drink while out. Before you know it, your judgment is gone. Even if not drunk in a legal definition, the combination of the medicine and the alcohol makes it hard to focus. Next thing you know, police have you in a stop.
Always be cognizant of how even a small amount of alcohol can impact you when taking medication.
3. Legal help
In the event you are in custody and charged with a DUI, don’t waste time in seeking legal help.
By searching for criminal defense attorneys, you can find the best counsel by taking a little bit of time. As a result of some due diligence, you will likely have someone in your corner fighting for you.
In selecting an attorney look for traits like experience, results, and personalities. Although you and your attorney do not need to be best friends, you do need some level of compatibility.
Last, it is imperative if arrested and charged with DUI that your attorney has all the info. For them to present a strong case, they need all the details. If in an accident and you injured one or more people, be ready to fight a tough battle.
In trying to steer clear of a DUI, make sure you do everything possible to stay focused on the road ahead.