Going Out Clubbing? 4 Tips to Avoid a DWI and Stay Safe

If you enjoy hitting the nightclubs, you’ll want to take extra precautions to keep yourself safe and out of trouble. One of the biggest dangers that’s associated with the nightlife is driving while intoxicated, and you could face hefty legal consequences if you’re pulled over by a police officer and charged with a DWI. Here are some of the best ways to avoid a DWI and stay safe while going out clubbing.

Arrange a Ride Beforehand

Having someone to take you to a nightclub and pick you up after you’re finished partying is a great way to ensure your safety after a night of drinking. You can ask a friend or family member who’s available to be your ride for the night so that you can get home without putting yourself and others on the road in danger. If possible, try to have an emergency contact on hand as well so that someone can be there at a moment’s notice if you need to be taken to a hospital or endure another unfortunate mishap. If you can’t get a ride from someone you know, it’s best to have apps downloaded on your mobile phone that let you arrange taxi or rideshare service.

Track Your Drinks

Keeping track of how much you’re drinking throughout the night can help you better determine if you are sober enough to drive yourself home or need to get a ride. Mobile apps make it easier to track how many drinks you’ve had. Some of these apps also come with blood alcohol content (BAC) trackers that are displayed as graphs so that you’ll know if you’re considered intoxicated under the law. Results of your drinking can be personalized by entering your gender, height and weight.

Consider Nonalcoholic Beverages

You don’t have to drink alcohol to have a good time clubbing, and there are many nonalcoholic beverages that will quench your thirst and give your taste buds reason to celebrate. A Shirley Temple is a classic alcohol-free beverage that’s made with cherries, lemon wedges, grenadine and soda for a sweet flavor. Other options include the Roy Rodgers, Cinderella and club soda and lime. You can also try ordering nonalcoholic beer that still has the same substance and flavor as regular beer.

Hire a Defense Lawyer

If you get pulled over and the police want to press DUI or DWI charges against you, hiring a criminal defense attorney can help you protect your rights. Your chosen legal representative will work to minimize your legal consequences and try to find ways to reduce any fines and/or jailtime that you may face. If you were unfairly arrested, your attorney may even be able to have your charges dismissed and your record cleared.

You shouldn’t have to put yourself at risk for getting a DWI just because you want to have a good time at the clubs. By using your head and having all the right resources in order, you’ll be able to party the night away with fewer worries.