When you go on a first date, you want to make a good impression. Getting arrested for drinking and driving can quickly ruin your first date and almost instantly prevent you from getting a second.
According to the Washington State Department of Licensing, you could face charges for DUI if you operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol content level at or above 0.08%. The following tips may help you avoid this embarrassing situation in front of your date.
Grab something to eat
Instead of just going out for drinks, include eating a meal together as part of your plans. Food can slow the absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream, which can keep your BAC from rising quickly following an alcoholic beverage or two.
Do something besides bar hopping
Visiting different bars can be a fun way to try new places while you get to know your date. But when you go to different bars, it can be harder to keep track of how much you drink, raising your risk for getting pulled over for drinking and driving.
Give your date your keys
If you feel like you might have had too much to drink, do not try and drive anyway. Give your date your keys, or if needed, use a rideshare service to get home. Encourage your date to do the same if he or she has also had too much to drink.
If you do end up getting arrested for DUI, whether on a first date or not, you may face serious consequences, such as jail time and license suspension. Do not ignore the charges against you and proactively protect your legal rights.