If you’ve been to a bar or restaurant and had a few too many drinks and then got behind the wheel, you know how terrifying it can be to imagine facing the consequences of driving under the influence (DWI). But don’t worry! The good news is that DWI charges are not always easy to get; they are also fairly uncommon in Houston. The majority of people who get arrested for driving while intoxicated have been drinking excessively and then getting behind the wheel of their own vehicle, so it’s a good idea to avoid that situation if possible.Fortunately, there are some ways you can avoid getting a DWI in the first place. Many people are surprised to learn that there are actually more than three kinds of DWI charges - and three being the least of them! The three most common types of DWI charges are as follows:
Know the basic signs of impaired driving
In any given day, about 80,000 people are injured in car crashes due to drunk driving. This equates to an estimated 5,000 fatalities and 500,000 injuries every year due to impaired driving. The best way to avoid getting caught for a DWI is to be aware of the signs of impaired driving. Here are a few examples: Driving off the road or swerving across lanes - this is a red flag for impaired drivers.Slow reaction time - this is often a sign of alcohol impairment as well as the use of drugs or medicines that are known to impair driving skills.Depending on the severity of the impaired driving charge you face, you will have to attend court hearings and go through a criminal defense process. This means you will also have to bear the cost of hiring an attorney. But it’s worth it because getting a DWI conviction can have a lasting negative effect on your life.
Don’t drink and drive
As we’ve mentioned, the majority of people who get arrested for driving while intoxicated have been drinking excessively and then getting behind the wheel of their own vehicle. It’s estimated that 80 percent of people who drink and drive are also under the legal drinking age.As a driver, you have the most influence over other drivers who have had too much to drink. The best thing you can do if you see someone driving erratically or swerving is to dial 9-1-1 or call a cab. You can also call a designated driver if there are other people in your group who are over the drinking age.Dedicated drivers are those who have not consumed alcohol in a long period of time. These individuals drive defensively, are more aware of their surroundings, and use proper car safety techniques. This makes them less likely to get in an accident.
Plan ahead for a safe ride home
If you’ve had too much to drink, it’s a good idea to have a plan for getting home without driving drunk. You can call a friend who lives nearby, or you can ask the bartender to call you a taxi.You can also take a bus or train home if it’s open late. If you have to drive after drinking, make sure you designate a responsible driver to accompany you home.
Stay at the right distance from other cars
We’ve all heard that you should never drive while you are sleepy, but did you know that’s true for alcohol, too? If you’ve been drinking, you may feel sleepy, but you don’t want to fall asleep behind the wheel. You should drive at a distance from other cars so you can see what’s ahead of you without having to pay too much attention to other cars.If you feel sleepy while driving, pull over and get out of the car. It’s better to be safe than to risk getting a DWI.
Conclusion
The best way to avoid getting a DWI is to plan ahead for a safe ride home. Stay at the right distance from other cars, don’t drink and drive, and avoid getting behind the wheel if you are impaired. You can also stay away from bars and restaurants if you want to avoid getting a DWI charge. DWIs are serious charges that can have serious consequences for your life. It’s important to understand the risks before making any decisions that could lead to a DWI.