Preventing DUI charges is far easier than dealing with the consequences of being formally arrested. Here are some smart tips to make getting a DUI charge less likely.
Check Your BAC Before You Get In the Car
Personal breathalyzer tests are an excellent tool to help you get a clear “yes or no” answer on whether or not it’s safe and legal for you to operate your vehicle after you’ve had a few alcoholic beverages. Simply blow into the device and your readout should give you an idea of whether it’s appropriate to just wait a little while for your body to metabolize the rest of the alcohol, or if you need to arrange for another ride home.
However, they’ve gotten a bad reputation for being devices solely used by people who have already been found guilty of DUI and have been forced to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle — or by police officers when they stop you for suspected driving while intoxicated. Used responsibly, a breathalyzer can be an important tool in determining if you are legally and morally safe to operate your vehicle after drinking.
Don’t Exceed Your Personal Limitations
How you process alcohol in your bloodstream is going to be different from the way someone else processes it, even if you’re the same height, weight, and biological sex. Factors like tolerance and if you’ve eaten a large meal can impact how many drinks you can safely have.
This may be entirely different from how many you can have on another night before you exceed your personal limits. Learn how to listen to your body’s cues as you’re consuming.
Make Sure You Have Another Way Home (Before You Start Drinking)
If you can’t safely operate your own vehicle, organizing another ride home in an intoxicated state can be difficult. It’s better to decide ahead of time what your backup plan will be. For example, you could ask a friend who you know will be staying sober if they wouldn’t mind giving you a ride home if you happen to overindulge. Or, you can take an Uber or taxi and pick up your car in the morning.
Got a DUI Charge Regardless? Here’s How an Attorney Can Help
Were you arrested for DUI of alcohol regardless of your efforts to avoid such a charge? You need the help of a seasoned Florida criminal defense attorney to fight back. Contact T. Martin Knopes, P.A. today for an appointment by calling (850) 683-0700.