Few things are as harrowing as having to deal with DWI (driving while intoxicated) charges during a road trip. Fortunately, you can easily avoid the experience if you take the necessary precautions. Below are some of the precautions that can help.
Understand DUI Law Variations
The first step is to brush up on your knowledge of DWI laws. Focus on the states you plan to visit during your road trip. Note that DUI laws vary by state, so what is true in your state might not necessarily be true for other states.
For example, most states have per se DWI laws that assume intoxication has impaired your driving if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is at least 0.08. However, Utah has its limit lower at 0.05, which means Utah authorities can charge you with DWI more easily than other states. Some states also have zero tolerance DWI laws, which make it a crime to drive with any level of alcohol in your blood.
Designated Driver
The best way to avoid DWI is not to drive after drinking. You can do this by having a designated driver who shouldn't taste any alcohol at all. Have a rotational timetable for designated drivers, with each designated driver aware of their turn to drive long in advance. That way, all of you will drive and drink at alternate times so that you can all have fun without risking your lives or breaking the law.
Have Emergency Contacts
Have emergency contacts you can call for help in the unlikely event the only person who can drive is intoxicated. Such a case might arise if there are only a few of you on the road trip — say, it's only you and a friend. Maybe it was your turn to drive, your friend is intoxicated, and you have suffered a medical emergency. You should have someone you can call for help in such a situation.
Don't Attract Attention
Lastly, you should not attract attention to your car, especially if you have tasted some alcohol. Ensure your car is sound before embarking on the trip. A busted taillight, for example, can cause the police to flag you down — and a DWI test is highly probable after any police stop. You should also be aware of the relevant traffic laws and follow them to the letter.
If the police arrest you, don't forget that you have legal rights, and you are innocent until proven guilty. Consult an attorney to help you with your DWI defense.
For more information, reach out to a DWI lawyer in your area.
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