Part of working in a corporate environment is fitting in with your colleagues. You’re expected to go to restaurants with clients and to come to the occasional party after work. Alcohol is just a normal part of doing business in many ways, so you don’t think that much about having a drink or two before heading home.
Driving under the influence can quickly lead to charges, so it’s important for you to know that your happy hour or work party drinks could cause problems for you. Drunk driving leads to around 28% of all traffic fatalities in America, so the officers who stop you are going to be focused on doing what’s right for you and other road users.
South Dakota’s struggle with DUIs
Did you know that South Dakota, Wyoming and North Dakota all lead the country in DUI arrests? Additionally, the majority of people involved in these fatal crashes are between the ages of 21 and 44, making up a whopping 74% of all deaths caused by drunk drivers.
What can you do to prevent deadly crashes and DUI charges?
It’s important to recognize that a few drinks after work can still be dangerous for you and others on the roads. Deadly crashes are possible even if you’re below the .08% per se blood alcohol concentration limit, so consider opting to get a sober ride home or taking public transportation to get to your destination.
You can also rotate sober drivers each week, trading off with colleagues to make sure you always have a sober driver to take you home.
If you won’t be able to find another safe way home, think about the other options you have. If you’re having a short get-together with colleagues after work, opt for a soda or water instead. Alternatively, consider not attending if you absolutely have to drink alcohol if you go to the meeting.
Had something to drink? Don’t get behind the wheel
There is never a good time to drive after you’ve had some alcohol. If you’ve had anything to drink, consider driving off-limits so you can avoid getting a DUI or being at risk of an alcohol-related collision.