Millions of Americans have been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) over the last decade. Although DUI is a very common crime, driving while intoxicated can lead to an array of other crimes and a lengthy prison sentence. Roughly 70 percent of Americans reported drinking within the last year, while 56 percent purportedly drank within the last month. Most Americans drink, but if you don’t make smart decisions and choose to operate a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you will need the assistance of a DUI defense attorney in Tampa to help you avoid spending time behind bars.
In this two-part series, we will discuss various ways you can avoid a DUI. Obviously, the most important step you can take is by vowing to never sit behind the wheel when intoxicated, but there are countless alternatives to drunk driving. Keep this information top of mind next time you have a few drinks at your favorite watering hole.
When you’re over the legal limit, but you need to make it home quickly and want to save money, asking a friend for a ride is your best option. Admittedly, it can be difficult to find a completely sober person at a bar, but not all people go to bars to drink; sometimes, they just want to socialize while drinking an ice-cold glass of water. Asking for a ride from a friend or colleague allows you to avoid a DUI while riding home with someone you trust. It’s important to screen your ride thoroughly before departing to make sure they haven’t been drinking. Ask them a few questions, test for the smell of alcohol on their breath, and survey other people who have been socializing with that person. Remember, if there’s nobody at the bar who can drive you home, you can phone a friend to see if anyone in the local area can help you out.
Taxi cabs aren’t as popular as they used to be, but they still run in virtually every area of the United States. Although taxi cabs can be expensive, and you should always monitor the meter to make sure you’re being charged the correct amount, they are a surefire way to avoid a DUI. Plus, compared to the cost of a DUI, a taxi cab is very affordable. When it comes down to it, that 10-minute ride and the awkward conversation that comes with it are vastly preferable to a DUI.
To learn more about smart alternatives to drunk driving, read part two.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.