When it comes to driving under the influence, the three strikes principle isn’t exactly what the law operates on, but it’s pretty close. Each time you get a conviction, the penalties go up and you get closer and closer to losing your license for good. You don’t have to curb your fun to avoid a DUI though. Here are a few tips so you can keep having fun without running the risk of hurting yourself or others.
Know the Law
Across the United States, the legal limit is a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08. However, even if your BAC is below .08, you could potentially end up with a driving while intoxicated (DWI) charge. It all depends on how your body is processing the alcohol and how it affects your driving. Additionally, you can get a DUI for driving while on drugs or other mind-altering substances. Unlike alcohol, these substances don’t have a legal limit, so you’ll get booked if you have any trace at all in your system.
Be Aware
Keep track of how much and how quickly you’re consuming alcohol! There is a common perception that about two drinks will lead to a BAC of .08, but that isn’t always true. There are a lot of factors that influence how drunk you get and how fast it happens. Your age, weight, how much you have had to eat, and what kind of alcohol you are drinking will all play a part in how drunk you get. It’s important that you pay attention to your body and what it is telling you, but remember that you can be drunk, even if you don’t feel like it.
Just Don’t Drive
If you know that you want to go out and get drunk, just don’t plan on driving. If you never get behind the wheel, you won’t get pulled over for driving while under the influence. There are a variety of options that you can utilize to get to and from the party or bar that you want to go to. If it is within walking distance, walk over with your friends. You can also take public transportation or get a cab. There are a variety of ride-sharing options available that you can use for a decent price. If you are going with a group of friends, you can also use a designated driver. Put a couple plans in place so you don’t have any temptation to drive yourself once you have started drinking.
It’s always easier to plan ahead then to wish you had later when you have to deal with the consequences. Don’t let partying lead to crying because you are dealing with a DUI and the potential to lose your license.
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