5 Ways To Steer Clear Of Impaired Driving

One of the worst problems in our society that still doesnt get enough attention is that of impaired driving. Aside from the many legal problems you can get into as a result of driving while drunk or impaired, its a stupid thing to do that puts yourself and others, including people you dont even know, in serious danger. Not drinking altogether is obviously a failsafe way to avoid driving while impaired, but short of that, here are a few more ways you can prevent impaired driving and all the dangers that go along with it.

Have A Designated Driver

This is an obvious solution, yet many people still struggle to follow it. The key is to plan out who the designated driver is going to be ahead of time so that person knows going in they wont be drinking that night. This will eliminate any confusion or finger pointing at the end of the night. The best thing to do is come up with a schedule you and your friends can follow whenever youre drinking. This ensures everyone knows who the designated driver will be and that everyone is doing their fair share when it comes to keeping everyone safe from impaired driving.

Bring Money For A Cab

You can tell yourself ahead of time that youre not going to drink too much, but we all know its easy for those plans to go awry. Just to be safe, always remember to bring extra money with you so you can pay for a cab to take you home . If you end up not needing it thats fine, but always make sure youre covered by having money for a cab just in case.

Stop Drinking Long Before Driving

One of the last things you ever want to do is finish off the last couple sips of a drink and immediately get behind the wheel of a car. Instead, give yourself at least an hour or two between the time you stop drinking and the time you think about driving home. This will help give your body a chance to process the alcohol youve consumed and start to recover. Its also best to drink some water and eat some food during that time so that youre all set to drive when you do decide to head home.

Pace yourself

For most people, your body can process about one drink per hour. Any more than that and youre putting yourself in danger of being impaired, even if you give yourself extra time before driving home. Thus, the best thing you can do when drinking is to pace yourself. Too many people think that if they drink a lot while the night is young and then slow things down theyll be fine when its time to drive home. This simply isnt true. Most of the time, if youve averaged more than a drink per hour, youre risking being an impaired driver , so dont be afraid to nurse your drinks a little and take your time.

Eat A Lot

When youre drinking, food is your friend. Drinking on an empty stomach is the best way to become impaired, so make sure youve had plenty to eat, particularly before you start drinking. If youve had a full meal before you start drinking, youll feel less inclined to drink a lot, and what you do drink will be absorbed better. If you plan on drinking, thats actually the best time to break your diet and pig out a little; its a good way to avoid driving while impaired later on.

There you have it. 5 ways to avoid an impaired driving situation. Remember though, the best way to avoid impaired driving is not to have a drink in the first place.