The holiday season offers plenty of opportunities to gather with family and friends over food and drinks. Unfortunately, the booze-infused festivities throughout December also make this prime DUI season. Every year, hundreds of lives are lost to drunk drivers. Don’t contribute to these numbers—follow these tips to protect yourself and those around you.

5 Ways to Avoid a DUI 

1. Arrange a Safe Ride

If you’re headed to a party and plan to drink, arrange a safe ride home with a non-drinking friend or family member. Many taxi services also offer discounts over the holiday season aiming to reduce DUI accidents. Check your local provider and program their number in your phone.

2. Designate Yourself to Drive

Sometimes it’s nice to take a break from alcohol during the whirlwind holiday season. Name yourself the designated driver if you’re heading out with friends or colleagues. You can be sure you and your pals will get home safe—and spare yourself a headache the next morning.

3. Drink Smart

If you do plan on driving after restricted drinking—for instance, one glass of wine over a work dinner—be smart. Do not rely on the “one drink per hour” rule; everyone’s body metabolizes alcohol differently. Make sure you eat enough food, which slows the absorption of alcohol. Drink enough water. Finally, don’t break your commitment to a single drink.

4. Spend the Night

Attending a party at a friend’s house? If you end up drinking and don’t have a safe ride home, crash on their couch. You can even ask them in advance about staying over—maybe they have a guest room they can set you up in. 

5. Watch Out for Others

When a person drives drunk, they don’t just endanger themselves but also those around them. Do your part to protect the community. If you host a party of your own, make allowances for people to stay over. Ensure there are plenty of non-alcoholic beverages on hand. Call people taxis as needed.

If you find yourself in need of a DUI attorney this holiday season, get help from James Parrish Coleman Attorney At Law of Robertsdale, AL. This general practice law firm is run by a father and son team with a commitment to providing top-quality service. They will make sure you understand how the law impacts your issue—and help you determine the best possible game plan going forward. Get an introduction to their lawyers online, then schedule an appointment to meet them in person by calling (251) 947-6247.