by Kay D. Sadell

Created on: April 04, 2008   Last Updated: October 31, 2008

Getting a DUI is time consuming, costly, and extremely embarrassing; but the good news is that its also very easy to prevent. By following these tips and using good sense you can avoid a DUI.

* Make a plan before you go out. If you know you will be drinking make sure you have a sober driver to get you home safely. You might want to try keeping the number of a local taxi service in your wallet for those times you are ready to leave and no one else is. Chances are you can more easily afford a cab fare home compared to DUI fines.

* Eat a big dinner before a night out drinking. This will help to slow down your alcohol absorption if you decide to drink. Food with lots protein and carbohydrates work best.

* Try alternating every other drink with something non-alcoholic to help with slowing down alcohol consumption. Make sure to stop drinking alcohol all together and switch to just water at least 2 hours before you leave if you still plan on driving(which isn't the best idea).

* If you are drunk and decide to sleep it off in your car there a few things to remember. Make sure your car is turned off and not blocking any kind of traffic; and your keys should not be in the ignition at all, you can still be charged even if you aren't driving! Place them in the glove box or your pocket. Then you can lie down in the back seat and sleep it off until you are sober enough to drive.

* If you have had a few drinks, try doing a few sobriety tests on your own to see what kind of shape you are in before you head home; but remember that you don't have to blow over the limit to get a DUI. You can still be charged even after a few drinks.

* Your sex and body type has a lot to do with the way you absorb alcohol. Try checking out a few websites that have a BAC chart to determine how much is a safe amount for you to drink and still be able to drive.

* Don't drink and drive at all. It is the smartest and most obvious move you can make. By following this tip you are 100% guaranteed to not get a DUI.

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