by Ann E. Smith

Created on: April 27, 2008   Last Updated: October 31, 2008

Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol is reckless and selfish crime that can be easily avoided. A DUI is the act of driving when legally intoxicated. A person does not have to be driving a car, though, to be guilty of DUI. While many believe that riding a bike or operating a golf cart or boat, when drunk, is less dangerous or criminal than driving a car when intoxicated, they are sadly mistaken. Any form of DUI is wrong in the eyes of the law.

DUIs often lead to devastating outcomes including the loss of innocent lives, careers, families, freedom and respect from others. Other consequences can include jail time, the loss of a driver's license, and huge legal fees and financial penalties associated with the crime.

Given that driving while under the influence leads to only negative outcomes, why do people so frequently commit this crime? Simply put, when people are legally drunk, their decision making is impaired yet their desire to do exactly what they want to do is increased. What a lethal combination!

For those who like to drink to the point of impairment and who honestly do not want to drink and drive, here are some tips to avoid the crime of DUI.

If you even think there's a chance you will drink too much to drive, consider these options:

- Select a bar within walking distance. It's fun to hang out at the neighborhood pub and to know that having an extra beer or two, if you so choose, will not affect your mode of transportation since you are on foot.

- Take a cab. If you drink a considerable amount, definitely take a cab home. Some nights are big event nights, such as major sporting events or concerts. If you really want to indulge at those events, it is wise to take a cab to and from the event.

- Hang out with a reliable designated driver. Take turns playing this role with your group of drinking buddies. Designated drivers save many, many lives.

- Give your keys to the bartender to hold until the next day. If you decide to drink more than you should while out, give your keys to the bartender when you make the decision to go all out with drinking. This tip is assuming that you will know when to say when.

- Sleep in your car if necessary. While not comfortable, spending the night in jail due to a DUI is far more uncomfortable. If you are at a party at a friend's house, you could opt to spend the night on the host's floor or sofa as well.

If you plan to drink reasonably and then drive home, simple rules of thumb include the following:

- Eat food while drinking. Drinking on an empty stomach greatly speeds up the process for you to get buzzed from the alcohol. Nibbling on appetizers or eating dinner with drinks has the opposite effect.

- Do not drink more than one drink per hour, with a three-drink limit. Drinking more slowly also slows down the time it will take for you to become impaired by alcohol.

- Be honest with yourself. If you drink more than you planned, be willing to accept other alternatives than driving, including cab fare.

DUIs are reprehensible, especially given that with a little planing and a bit less selfishness on the drinker's part, DUIs can be completely avoided. Keep these tips in mind and whatever the situation, do not drink and drive! You will thank yourself the next day.

Learn more about this author, Ann E. Smith.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.