Avoiding an OUI charge is far better than trying to fight one later on down the road. Here are some tips to lower your chances of being caught drinking and driving.
Unfortunately, these are not foolproof methods for OUI and you may be charged with drinking and driving regardless, especially if the police officer does not seem to have much better to do at the time or it’s the end of the month and they need to reach a quota.
If you are charged with drinking and driving, you do have legal recourse which may help you have the charge dismissed or at least the overall penalties reduced, particularly if you’re a first-time offender.
Keep a Breathalyzer In Your Car
Consider investing in a small, portable, and affordable breath test that you can keep in your car or with you in your purse or pocket. This way, if you go to a club or a party at another person’s house, you can easily sneak off to a corner or into the bathroom and check if you’re still good to drive home or if other arrangements may be necessary.
Don’t Exceed Your Body’s Limits
Knowing how to perceive your body’s signals that let you know how much is too much is key to drinking responsibly. Don’t go over your personal threshold based on your weight, if you’ve eaten, your biological sex, and other medications you may be taking. Keep your total number of drinks low based on Alcohol by Volume (ABV) and drink glasses of water in between. If you overdo it, use your plan B.
Ask Someone Sober for a Ride If You Need To
Ideally, you haven’t waited until the last minute to draw up a contingency plan if you end up getting too intoxicated to safely take yourself home. These things are best planned in advance when you’re sober, but it doesn’t have to be anything elaborate.
You may just want to keep the number to a friend who isn’t drinking or a taxi service within easy reach of your phone or on speed dial. Or, you may just order an Uber home and take one back to your car after you sleep it off.
If you were unfortunately unsuccessful avoiding an OUI charge, you need a strong criminal defense. Contact Criminal Defense Attorney Thomas Kokonowski for your consultation today by calling 774-561-2689.
