Making smart decisions about your future by drinking responsibly

Nov 7, 2017 | drunk driving

Facing accusations for driving under the influence of alcohol can be stressful and daunting. You might wish to avoid a similar circumstance entirely by staying sober and strictly adhering to Ohio state laws, but you may also enjoy celebrating with your friends on occasion.

If you choose to drive following a social gathering during which you chose to consume alcohol, you may feel as though you are completely coherent and capable of doing so. However, an officer may not feel the same, and if involved in a traffic stop, you could find yourself in handcuffs and on your way to jail.

Retaining control by acting with responsibility

While you might not want to let the fear of a traffic stop hinder your ability to enjoy your evening, being responsible could not only keep you out of trouble but may also keep you healthy and safe. By making smart decisions when consuming alcohol, you could prevent a potential disaster, and some factors to consider that might prove beneficial in this area may include the following:

  • Enforce limitations:  It can take time for the body to absorb alcohol, and knowing your limits and preventing yourself from exceeding them could prove invaluable to keeping you out of harm’s way.
  • Order food:  When consuming alcohol, it is advisable to eat food, as the effects of alcohol could be much more significant on someone with an empty stomach.
  • Take care with mixed drinks:  Certain mixed drinks contain numerous types of alcohol, and the amount a bartender places within is up to his or her discretion.
  • Avoid mixing alcohol and prescriptions:  When taking prescription medications, it is advisable to limit alcohol consumption to a minimum, or in some cases, avoid drinking entirely, as the mixture of the two can have undesirable effects.

If you are planning to drink, it may be in your best interests to secure a designated driver or use a transportation service. However, if you do drive and find yourself facing criminal allegations, seeking guidance in the initial stages of the process is advisable.

Seeking guidance

The penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol are severe, and with the weight of a conviction looming overhead, you might be feeling somewhat overwhelmed and intimidated by the process. You could speak with someone with extensive knowledge in the area for some much-needed guidance on how best to approach the situation. By obtaining advice early on, you could become better prepared to pursue a favorable outcome during legal proceedings, which may in turn help you avoid suffering potentially devastating consequences regarding your future.