Driving while intoxicated (DWI) can lead to devastating consequences, from legal penalties to life-altering accidents. By making responsible choices, you’ll protect yourself and others from the dangers of impaired driving.
I’m David Reed, an experienced Austin DWI attorney, and I’m here to provide guidance on avoiding a DWI. In this article, I share 10 practical tips to help you make smart decisions and maintain a clean record.
How Do You Prevent a DWI?
- Always Plan Ahead for Transportation
- Know Your Limits and Alcohol Tolerance
- Use Rideshare Services or Taxis
- Avoid Drinking on an Empty Stomach
- Be Aware of Medications and Drug Interactions
- Set a Drink Limit Before Going Out
- Stay Overnight if Necessary
- Don’t Rely on Common Myths to Sober Up
- Support Your Friends in Making Responsible Decisions
- Choose One & Commit: Drinking or Driving
Tip 1: Always Plan Ahead for Transportation
One of the best ways to prevent a DWI is to plan your transportation in advance. If you know you’ll be drinking, decide how you’ll get home before you head out.
You could designate a sober driver, rely on public transportation, or use a rideshare app (more on that below). By planning ahead, you eliminate the temptation to drive under the influence and ensure that you make it home safely.
Tip 2: Know Your Limits and Alcohol Tolerance
Everyone’s body reacts differently to alcohol. Factors like weight, metabolism, and tolerance play a role in how quickly you become impaired.
Even small amounts of alcohol can impact your ability to drive safely. Keep in mind that Texas law sets the legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) limit at 0.08%. Understanding your limits can help you avoid exceeding this threshold and facing costly DWI penalties.
Tip 3: Use Rideshare Services or Taxis
In today’s world, it’s easier than ever to avoid driving while intoxicated. Traditional taxis and rideshare apps, like Uber and Lyft, offer affordable and convenient ways to get home safely.
The cost of a rideshare is insignificant compared to the legal fees, fines, and consequences you could face after a DWI. Having these apps installed on your phone is a smart way to ensure that a safe ride is always at your fingertips.
Tip 4: Avoid Drinking on an Empty Stomach
Drinking on an empty stomach can cause your body to absorb alcohol more quickly, which leads to higher levels of intoxication. To slow down alcohol absorption, eat a substantial meal or snack before you start drinking. Stay hydrated by alternating alcoholic drinks with water to lessen the effects of alcohol and keep you more alert.
Tip 5: Be Aware of Medications and Drug Interactions
Certain medications can amplify the effects of alcohol, making it even more dangerous to drive. If you’re taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs, consult your doctor or pharmacist to learn about potential interactions with alcohol.
Driving while impaired by drugs, even without consuming alcohol, can lead to severe penalties. In fact, David Reed Law Office regularly represents clients facing both alcohol and drug-related DWIs.
Tip 6: Set a Drink Limit Before Going Out
Set a personal limit on how many drinks you’ll have before you start the night to stay in control. Pace yourself, and alternate between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to ensure that you don’t accidentally consume too much. Holding yourself accountable empowers you to stay within the legal BAC and avoid the need for an Austin DWI defense attorney.
Tip 7: Stay Overnight if Necessary
If you find yourself in a situation where it’s unsafe to drive, consider staying overnight at a friend’s house or booking a hotel. This option eliminates the risk of driving while intoxicated and ensures that you’re making a responsible choice. A minor inconvenience now can save you from major legal trouble down the road.
Tip 8: Don’t Rely on Common Myths to Sober Up
There are plenty of myths about how to sober up quickly — whether it’s drinking coffee, taking a cold shower, or “sleeping it off” for a short time. However, the truth is that only time will lower your BAC and restore your ability to drive safely. If you’ve been drinking, don’t rely on these methods; avoid driving altogether to prevent a DWI.
Tip 9: Support Your Friends in Making Responsible Decisions
Preventing a DWI isn’t just about your own behavior — it’s also about looking out for your friends and family. If someone you know has been drinking, encourage them to avoid driving by offering to call them a rideshare or help them find a safe alternative. Facilitate a community of support to ensure that your friend group remains safe, responsible, and free of legal troubles.
Tip 10: Choose One & Commit: Drinking or Driving
Ultimately, the most effective way to prevent a DWI is to make a choice before you start drinking: either drink or drive, but not both. If you plan to drive, stick to non-alcoholic drinks. If you plan to drink, commit to finding alternative transportation. Making this decision before the night begins is key to staying safe and avoiding the severe penalties associated with a DWI.
Protect Your Future with a Skilled Austin DWI Attorney
DWIs are entirely preventable with proactive, responsible choices. By following these tips, you’ll reduce the risk of driving under the influence significantly and protect yourself from the legal consequences that come with it.
If you’ve been charged with a DWI, don’t face the legal system alone. For a free consultation with a trusted Austin DWI attorney, contact the David Reed Law Office now.
Together, we’ll fight for your future and ensure you receive the best defense possible.