Drink driving has always been an issue in Western Australia, with an average of 40 people killed in alcohol-related incidents every year. This is an alarming figure, especially when you consider Australia’s casual drinking culture and the impact it has on our road safety.
If you have recently been caught operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol then you might need the most reputable drink driving lawyer Perth has available.
And if, of course, your relationship with alcohol and driving is worrying you to the point of wanting to change, here are some tips on how to avoid getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol:
1. Enlist a designated driver
The term “designated driver” often seems like a foreign concept to Australians, as many friendship groups get together with the intention of having a solid tipple and anyone who doesn’t get on it is considered “soft”.
But a true friend will understand their mate’s intention not to get on the bevs, and if this can save their life in the process then, hey, what’s the big deal? Having a designated driver is not only a great way to ensure you get home safe, but it also means you have someone looking out for you if, for some reason, you find yourself feeling a bit worse for wear when out on the town!
2. Try not to drink alone
Solo consumption increased during the pandemic, especially with so many people living alone and with little opportunity to enjoy a beverage with friends. Unfortunately, for many people it is hard to let go of the sensation that solo alcohol consumption provides, and this left many people continuing to consume even when lockdown laws were lifted.
If you are someone who enjoys drinking alone, try not to do so in a manner that could potentially find you behind the wheel. There is a great risk in taking a car out solo and drinking far from home, and it’s best to avoid it wherever possible.
3. Get the apps
After all, you don’t have to take your own car out whilst drinking, as you have so many rideshare options available at your fingertips! With Uber, DiDi, Ola and even the classic taxi still going strong, there is simply no reason to recklessly operate your own vehicle when you can enjoy the safety and comfort of a ride sharing platform.
4. Stay over
One of the most dangerous methods of drink driving is drinking all night at a friend’s house only to hop in the car at say, two in the morning. This is especially reckless as you and your friend should be aware of the danger this presents, and should want to choose the easiest, comfiest and safest alternative: staying the night.
And, seriously, who really wants to drive after consuming that many beverages when they have a nice, cosy sofa there waiting for them the minute they decide to nod off?
We know the option we’d always go for…
5. Try not alcoholic beverages
If you love to socialise but are afraid that your consumption is becoming a little reckless then you have a more recent alternative to try: non-alcoholic beverages. 0 percent beer and other options are now the norm, and you can find them in the bar alongside any of the regular, heavy stuff, so maybe it’s time you might want to try something different, you will surely drive safely in the process…
