The holidays are a time of family get-togethers, office parties and celebration. We all like to have fun and enjoy the season, but it’s no fun getting arrested for DUI or other charges that can occur when the partying gets out of hand.
If you choose to drink at holiday gatherings, here are a few safe drinking tips to keep you, and others, safe:
- Have a plan for a safe way home, either through a designated driver, a taxi or a family member or friend that can come get you. Have a backup plan, too. Trust us, a taxi ride is a lot cheaper than defending a DUI charge. Safer, too.
- Eat. And if you’re not sure there will be food you like at the gathering, bring your own. Don’t drink on an empty stomach.
- Try to avoid salty foods and snacks — they can make you thirsty and you could end up drinking more than you realize.
- Sip your drink — it’s not a contest.
- Bring non-alcoholic drinks or “mocktails” and transition to those a few hours before you leave, or alternate alcohol with non-alcoholic drinks.
- Avoid drinking games or drinking-related challenges unless you’re spending the night or have a dependable designated driver.
- If you know you will be driving, limit your drinks to one per hour.
- And finally, realize it’s okay to say “no thanks.” You are in charge of what you drink, and
- no one should guilt you into drinking more than you want.
If you have any questions about the legal ramifications of partying too much or getting a DUI this holiday season, please call 757-455-9277 and ask our DUI attorney. The phone call and initial consultation is free.