DUI: Worse Than Coal In Your Stocking

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Getting a DUI is no laughing matter no matter what time of year it is. It is illegal to drink and drive for many reasons. Because alcohol causes you to lose control of your judgement, motor skills and your ability to reason, it is very dangerous to drive after drinking. When you do, you not only put yourself at risk of an accident, but you also put everyone else driving on the road at risk as well. There are many consequences to driving under the influence, focusing on these might just help to keep you safe this holiday season.

DUIs Are Expensive

There are many fees and costs associated with a DUI. According to the best DUI lawyer in Walnut Creek, California, the average cost of a first time offender can be well over $20,000. You will have to pay for jail time, sentencing and the fee for your vehicle being impounded. You will also have to pay court fees, which can really add up. Plus, you can count on your insurance rates going up. Other fees include paying for an attorney, replacement license, taking an education class and the license reinstatement fee.
Employment Problems

Having a DUI on your record can cause problems when it comes to work. If you are in the process of trying to get a job, you will notice that many employers frown upon those types of marks in your records. On the other hand, if you have a job that requires driving, you might run the risk of losing your job because of it. Another reason you might lose your current job is because of all the time off you will require for court visits.

Tips To Avoid A DUI This Holiday Season

1. Designated Driver - When you plan on drinking, you should plan to have a designated driver. This could be a friend or family member. Also, you could plan on calling a taxi to take you home if you think you might have had too much to drink.

2. Limit How Much You Drink - If you want to drive yourself home, limit how much you drink. Depending on which state you live in, there are limitations set into place on how much you can drink before you are over the limit. However, if you have even had one drink, it is always best and safest to have someone else drive.

3. Stay The Night - Another alternative to getting a ride is to stay the night wherever you are. If you are at a friend’s or relative’s house, ask them if it would be alright to stay the night. This is a great idea if you plan to drink and don't want to worry about how much you have had.

4. Don't Drink- The best thing to do if you are worried about getting a DUI is to not drink at all. It is still very possible to have a great time without drinking alcohol to get inebriated.

As you can see, there are many consequences to drinking and driving. If you get a DUI this holiday season, you will have financial, emotional and job related consequences. A DUI can haunt you and affect your life for many years. If you plan to drink, find any other alternative to driving that you can. You will thank yourself in the long run.

Shelby Warden is a legal researcher and contributing writer for the Law Office of Johnson & Johnson, considered the best DUI lawyer in Walnut Creek, California. Their DUI lawyer team will help you get through the court process and make sure that your rights are protected.  If you plan to go out for the holidays, following the tips above can help you avoid a DUI charge.