Whether you’re planning to spend spring break in Florida, skiing in Colorado or at one of Georgia’s coastal resorts, you don’t need a DUI to mar your good time. Fortunately, with Uber and Lyft available just about everywhere, there’s no reason to get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking.
However, many college students like the freedom of bringing their cars on spring break and driving to and from parties and other activities. If you’re going to do that, be aware that police will be out in force — particularly in towns that are popular spring break destinations.
In addition to not getting behind the wheel when you’re intoxicated, here are a few other tips to avoid attracting the attention of law enforcement:
- Don’t carry open containers of alcohol in your car. While open container laws vary by state, it’s always safest to keep any alcohol (open or not) in the trunk of the vehicle. If you’re underage, you shouldn’t have any alcohol anywhere in the vehicle.
- No underage boozing. Speaking of underage drinking, remember that if you’re under 21, even if you register .02 on the Breathalyzer, you can get a DUI under zero tolerance laws.
- Don’t try to avoid DUI checkpoints. Some people get nervous when they see a checkpoint, even if they’ve done nothing wrong. If you see one coming up, don’t do anything foolish like making an illegal U-turn. That’s just going to attract officers’ attention and suspicion and may get you pulled over.
- Be careful when driving after taking any medication. Even over-the-counter (OTC) medications and drugs taken as prescribed can impair your driving and result in a DUI. Medications combined with even a little alcohol can have a serious impact on your ability to drive safely. If you left your medication back at the dorm or at home, don’t take someone else’s. Even if it seems to be identical to yours, it may not be.
If you find yourself facing a DUI, don’t take it lightly. Even a first DUI can have serious consequences, including fines and jail time. It’s wise to seek experienced legal guidance.