No Laughing Matter: Understanding the Severity of a DUI

No one wants to get a DUI, but it can be difficult to understand the severity without any experience. The more you know about the potential consequences of driving under the influence, the better prepared you will be to avoid the situation altogether. Here are a few of the consequences you may face and some solutions to help you avoid driving while intoxicated.

In the Moment

The primary issues you will face will occur while you’re driving the car and immediately afterward. When you’re driving under the influence, your decision-making isn’t at its best and your ability to drive safely is significantly reduced. This can put your life in danger and will also put the lives of everyone else on the road at risk. Ideally you would avoid driving intoxicated altogether so you can stay safe and help to protect others on the road. Getting in an accident while under the influence of drugs or alcohol can also cause damage to your car, which can be expensive to repair.

Legal Issues

Even if you aren’t in an accident on the road, you can face major legal consequences for drinking and driving. Getting pulled over while intoxicated can result in serious legal trouble that will affect your ability to continue driving and even your criminal record. A DUI conviction carries stiff penalties that could alter the course of your life drastically. It’s much easier to simply avoid a DUI conviction in the first place by making sure that you never drink and drive.

Solutions

Choosing to never drink and drive is essential to avoiding a DUI and the consequences that may come with it. This doesn’t mean that you can never drink, just that you need to drink responsibly. You can start by making sure that you always have a designated driver if you drink when you’re out, you can also call for a taxi or a rideshare. If you know you will be drinking when you’re out it’s a good idea to make prior arrangements to help you get home, so you don’t get into a situation where you feel you need to drink and drive.

It’s always a good idea to try to prepare for the future, especially when it comes to drinking responsibly. Make plans for yourself so you can avoid difficult situations and never have to deal with the consequences of drinking and driving. That way you will stay safe and keep others safe on the road.

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