Facing a DUI charge in Florida is a serious matter with potential lifelong impacts. Penalties can be severe, including substantial fines, driver's license revocation, and even jail time. A skilled Florida DUI defense attorney can help you fight the charges or have the legal consequences reduced. But why face the risk of a holiday DUI in Florida if you don't have to?
A DUI charge can be avoided simply by acting responsibly and planning ahead. You don't have to avoid enjoying your holiday cheer this season; just avoid drinking and driving. Below, you'll find valuable tips on how to avoid a DUI.
Abstain from alcohol if you're driving
Whether you're looking to make it home or you're the designated driver, it's best to avoid alcohol entirely. During the holidays, there can be a lot of social pressure from friends and family to drink. It's okay to say no or choose non-alcoholic beverages.
Police in Florida are out in full force, looking for drunk drivers during the holidays. If you haven't had anything to drink, police can't provide proof that you were driving drunk. Even if you're accused of DUI and arrested, you'll have a strong defense to fight the charges.
Designate a sober driver
A sober driver can responsibly navigate traffic and make sound decisions. This prevents you from facing a DUI charge and protects your safety. When planning to attend a holiday celebration, it's important to determine who will be the designated driver beforehand. Be sure to offer to be the designated driver after future celebrations, so the pressure doesn't solely lie on one individual. This role can rotate among friends and family.
The designated driver should be someone reliable who can resist any temptation to drink, regardless of the social pressure. Offering to cover their non-alcoholic beverages can be a nice gesture.
Utilize ridesharing services
Choosing a rideshare service when drinking during the holidays significantly reduces your risk of a DUI. It also ensures a safe journey home without endangering yourself or others on the road. This responsible choice also alleviates the stress of navigating traffic and finding parking, allowing you to fully enjoy your festivities.
Ridesharing apps such as Uber and Lyft are available right at your fingertips. Simply install one of these apps before your holiday celebration and book a rideshare. Many rideshare drivers are on standby and can come to pick you up within minutes.
Spend the night if you can
If you're attending a holiday celebration at a friend or family member's house, ask them if you can spend the night if you plan on drinking. By staying overnight, you completely avoid the risk of legal troubles associated with drunk driving.
Host your own event or stay over
Do you have a place that's large or convenient enough for holiday celebrations? Consider hosting your celebration to avoid the need to drive after drinking.
When hosting your holiday celebration, also think about the safety of your guests. Offer non-alcoholic beverages for those who choose not to drink alcohol. Also, have blankets, pillows, and other amenities ready in case guests need to stay the night.
Get legal help if you're charged with a DUI in Florida
We hope that you use these tips to avoid a Holiday DUI in Florida and promote safety. If, for any reason, you're facing a DUI charge, know you're legal rights. Speak to an experienced DUI defense attorney at Aguilar & Sieron, P.A.
Our law firm has over 25 years of experience serving clients in Clay County and Northeast Florida. We'll investigate the procedures and arrest that led to your DUI charge and help you fight the charges. To find out how we can help you, contact us online and schedule a consultation. You can also call our Green Cove Springs office.