As a friend, you want to keep those close to you safe when you go out drinking, and that might include preventing them from driving. Driving after consuming even minimal amounts of alcohol can result in road accidents or a DWI charge, putting a damper on a night of fun. To prevent your friend from needing a DWI lawyer, here are some ways you can keep them out of trouble in the first place. 

4 Tips to Keep Your Friends From Needing DWI Lawyers

1. Select a Designated Driver

Choosing someone to be the designated driver for the night is the most tried and true method to avoid trouble on the road. This person makes a promise not to drink that day so there’s at least one person guaranteed to be sober when the time comes to drive. At the end of the day, the driver is in charge of rounding everyone up and safely dropping them off at their homes. Assign the role to someone who doesn’t drink or to a new person every time you go out, which will ensure you always have a game plan that works for everyone. 

2. Leave the Cars at Home

If you’re going out with only another person or no one in your group wants to stay sober, take public transportation instead, such as a bus or train. If you’re out past the time public transit is running or your city offers limited options, consider hailing a taxi or using a ride-sharing service such as Uber® or Lyft®.

3. Take Away Their Keys

If by the end of the night you’re concerned that your driving friend has had too much to drink, don't be afraid to dish out a bit of tough love and take away their keys. They might get frustrated at the moment, but in the morning, they’ll thank you when they realize they don’t need to hire a DWI lawyer to deal with the consequences.

4. Let Them Sleep Over

If you’re hosting a party or get-together, let your friends know they’re welcome to spend the night if they’ve had too much to drink. Offering up your couch or guest bedroom will likely be enough to keep your friend from doing something they’d later regret. 

If you or someone you know has been charged with a DWI, Woodlawn Law Offices in O’Fallon, MO, is here to help. For over 25 years, Attorney David Schmidt has provided legal counsel regarding civil litigation, business planning, estate planning, real estate, family law, probate, and more. Visit their website to learn more about their practice areas, and call (636) 240-6667 to discuss your situation with a knowledgeable lawyer.