There are alternatives things one can do to protect oneself from a DUI arrest. The first is a ‘designated driver’ for the outing.

MADD, Mothers against Drunk Drivers suggest this solution to the drunken driving problem that exists. By using a designated driver you are not in a situation to be arrested. Arranging for a reliable designated driver may be a challenge if all your friends or fellow participants are planning to consume alcohol also. You and your friends can pool together and hire a limo service if the occasion is special enough and may be a fun way to prevent any problems that driving drunk can cause.

Another possible alternative for greater safety and fun is staying at the event if it is at a hotel. There will be no worries about driving and what may happen and then you can return the next day. If it is at friend’s home, one time you can stay at their place and the next time they can stay with you; neither of you driving after drinking. Most people who drink recreationally on weekends or on special occasions aren’t always able to make the event into a mini-vacation to handle frequent activities of celebrations involving alcohol consumption. People can make arrangements with friends to have mutual get-togethers and stay over to eliminate the possibility of driving drunk.

In many communities there is some sort of a community based Designated Driver Program. These offer solutions including providing transportation home for impaired drivers. One such local program around the Tampa area has been the “Tow to Go” program helping people and their cars get home safely. Check with local community resources to find out the particulars to help prevent the possibility of a possible arrest with assistance this program offers.

 Something some people used last holiday season around the Tampa area was an Alcohol Breath Tester key ring, though cannot claim to know or endorse these as foolproof. Making arrangements for public transportation or taking a cab are reliable. It may seem inconvenient but can save the time and hassle a DUI causes in life. Asking a friend to be the designated driver may be uncomfortable, but is less uncomfortable than a roadside stop and a DUI arrest. Finding the friend who really won’t drink may be hard, but you can offer to return the favor for another event in the future.

Following the alcohol beverage industry’s suggestion to drink responsibly is definitely wise. Plan ahead, if in doubt about whether you’ve had to drink, err on the side of caution and don’t drive. Better yet give your keys to a trusted friend to help watch out for you. Sometimes others can see when we have too much to drink. Taking a little extra care can save the time and expense that comes with a DUI stop and arrest.

These suggestions may work if you use them. Perhaps there are only two guarantees. One if you don’t drink you probably won’t drive drunk. The other is if you do drink and drive the possibly of being stopped becomes more likely the more often you do it.