There are many simple and obvious choices on how to avoid a DUI, but first and foremost one must possess the integrity to make them. Humans, in general, often feel infallible. “I had a few drinks and drove home fine last time.” The success in that venture was created by an alcohol fueled illusion. Who hasn’t felt the overwhelming sense of relief at making it home safely after a few drinks? We amuse ourselves with the admission of barely remembering “how” we got home in one piece. What these DUI drivers may not realize is that there were other drivers on the road who had to swerve to avoid them, and ended up in the middle of a tree. They were not very successful on making it home to their daughter’s birthday party in one piece.
People also speak of the time it takes for alcohol to affect the blood, and impair mental and physical functions. Time spent on calculating how one can get away with driving home after a few too many drinks could be better spent on calculating better ways of getting everybody home safe. It is not about us already having enough responsibility in our life that we can not be bothered with anyone else’s. It is an easy choice to make, but how easy will it then be to deal with the consequences of an “unsuccessful” driving home under the influence?
Often it is not until something terrible happens that teaches us not to drink and drive. We tested our limits and found the boundary line. We swear not to do it again, in court that is, surrounded by a group of strangers who are judging us by this one act. They do not care that you made it home a hundred other times.
A simple way to avoid a DUI is to accept and fully understand that it is, in every way, irresponsible and illegal to drink and drive. You may care about yourself more than others, but is injuring or killing yourself the best way to show it? There are no “do-overs”. Once you are caught and pulled over, the rush of adrenalin through your body can be more intoxicating, and your responses to police enforcement even more so. Once you wake to find the engine of your car resting in your lap, and blood on your windshield that is not your own, it is too late to call a cab.
Before you put yourself in that situation, consider arranging other transport such as hiring a personal driver and a car for the evening. If you are going downtown for a big night out, rent a nearby hotel or motel room with your friends. If you all become too intoxicated to call a cab, do not be offended if the establishment you are drinking in does it for you. Budget for your safety. If you can not afford to arrange for other transportation then you can not afford to go out, nor can you afford the fines and repercussions that occur when you are caught driving under the influence.
This type of planning does not take away from the spontaneity of having a good time; instead it offers you complete freedom that you have taken responsible steps to guarantee it, and also a clean driving record.
