Driving while under the influence is not a charge anyone wants on their record. It increases your insurance costs, may impact your employability, and could potentially make it difficult to obtain credit or housing. You absolutely must protect yourself from getting a DUI conviction on your record.

1. If you choose to drink, don’t drive.

This seems like such a simple concept, and it is right now because you are sober. The time to decide about driving is before you even drink. Find a friend who can drive for the group, having a designated driver prior to your event makes sense. Take turns being the designated driver for the groups so that everyone has a chance to help. Also, think about adding another designated driver if you have a large group.

Walk to the event. If at all possible, consider walking. Bear in mind, though, that when you are returning home, it will most likely be very late in the evening. Make sure the route is safe and that you would not be walking alone. Do not ride a bike. It is also against the law to ride a bicycle while intoxicated. [Read more…]