It’s holiday party season and between work events, friends, and New Years, law enforcement officers throughout the Atlanta Georgia metropolitan area are on the lookout for impaired drivers. Here are some important tips to remember before your holiday party based on past experience as an Atlanta DUI lawyer.

1. Have a plan to get you to and from the party safely.

2. Use a rideshare or designated driver. Saferides is also available if you need a ride home.

3. The two most common reasons people are pulled over during DUI investigations are failure to maintain lane and not having your headlights on. If you valet your vehicle or someone else drives, the driver may not know your car has automatic headlights. Before starting your car, make sure your headlights are ON.

4. Drinks that are poured at these events are often much stronger than drinks you pour yourself. 1-2 drinks can easily become 3-5 drinks if poured with a heavy hand.

5. If it is a work event, your actions reflect upon yourself AND your employer. You can be terminated if you are arrested for DUI after a work event. If there is an accident with injuries your employer can potentially be held liable.

If you are pulled over, you have the right to refuse to answer the officer’s questions beyond your name and date of birth. You have the right to refuse to perform field sobriety evaluations. You do not have to consent to a blood, breath, or urine test to determine alcohol level.