Be a defensive driver
Even if you choose not to ever drive after drinking alcohol, others will, especially during the holiday season. You can drive defensively by always being aware of drivers around you, including drivers behind you. Don’t assume it is safe to proceed through an intersection because you have the green light; look both ways to make sure the intersection is clear. You can also choose to use less busy roads. For example, if you take Alluvial instead of Herndon there will be less traffic and less chance of an accident.
Don’t drive while under the influence of alcohol
Many people don’t think about whether they are okay to drive until they are ready to go home. While the best alternative is not to drive after drinking any alcohol, many people will do so. If you going to drive where you will be drinking, decide before you leave at what point you will need to find another way of getting home. For example, if you make the decision that you won’t drive if you have more than one drink, when you decide to have a second drink you have make the decision not to drive home. You can always pick up your car the next day.
Don’t drive while under the influence of drugs, even drugs legally prescribed to you
DUI drug arrests are increasing. It is illegal to drive while under the influence of drugs legally prescribed to you, even if you have only taken the prescribed dose. In addition, even one alcoholic beverage, when combined with a prescription drug, can have a multiplier effect that causes the person to be legally impaired to drive.
Use a sober driver
Unfortunately, many people choose to use as a “sober driver” the person who is drinking the least in the group. The least drunk person in the group is a horrible “sober driver.” If you designate a sober driver, be aware of whether the driver is really sober before getting in the car with this person. If this person is not sober, choose a better alternative set forth below.
Use Uber or Lyft
The cost of using an Uber or Lyft driver is minimal compared to the cost of a DUI. When most people think of a DUI they think of an expensive arrest. But what if that DUI turns into an auto accident? You could injure yourself, passengers in your car or in another vehicle, or a pedestrian. Now you have much more than an expensive ticket. You could be looking at prison time.
