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December 14, 2018

The holidays are an exciting time for all to gather together, enjoy good food, and make memories. Most people flock to their childhood home and enjoy time with their parents, siblings, children, nieces, nephews, etc. The gathering of many families is a momentous occasion that is often accompanied by seasonal drinks; bold wines, winter beers, and spirits. Although the mood is merry, the dangers of drinking and driving are still very real indeed. Therefore, we have compiled a list of ways for you to drink responsibly while home for the holidays to ensure you make the most out of your time together.

When Staying In, Know the Plan: How to Drink Responsibly

Cracking open a few beers with family members over a football game is a great way to relax and bond. However, before you do, make sure you know the plans for the rest of the day. Ask around to see if there are any outings you will need to drive to after the game, such as holiday bazaars. Find out who else plans on drinking. There should always be a sober person in the house to ensure the safety of others, and make sure no one gets behind the wheel after drinking.

Bear in mind, some parents may allow their minor children to drink in the home during holiday gatherings. Know the laws surrounding underage drinking in the state you are in to avoid any legal implications that could ruin your holiday fun. Some states allow parents to serve alcohol to their own children in the home if they are at least 18 years old.

Be Prepared When Cabin Fever Strikes

While gathering with the family is a joyous occasion, we know things can get a little stir-crazy at times. Feeling the need to separate from the main group for some alone time or time spent with a smaller group is normal and should be acted upon when feasible.

If you plan to leave the house with a few of your favorite cousins to grab a few drinks, there is one important thing you must do: ensure you have safe transportation home. This means knowing what public transportation options are available, utilizing a rideshare company, or choosing someone to be the designated driver. If you are the designated driver, you get to go out and enjoy the fun but must abstain from consuming any drinks that contain alcohol.

Remember, Laws Stay the Same on Vacation

Always be aware of the local drinking and driving and public intoxication laws, even if you are on vacation. Tying in with knowing the plan, be sure you avoid having too much to drink before embarking on a family outing.

Even if you are not driving, you may still be charged with public intoxication, or being “drunk and disorderly.” There is no single definition of what constitutes a “public place,” so be aware of the local environment.

Signs of intoxication vary from person to person and depend largely on how much they have had to drink. Some typical signs the authorities watch for are the flushed face, acting out of the ordinary, losing control of one’s emotions, aggression, and lack of motor control.

Here at RoadGuard Interlock, we encourage you to drink responsibly this holiday season while making the most of your family vacation. We know the holidays are a cheerful time of the year, enjoy your time with family and close friends. If you know the group plans, anticipate and plan for cabin fever, and avoid going out while drunk, we want you to have a safe, enjoyable time.

*Links to any third-party websites herein are provided for your reference and convenience only. RoadGuard Interlock did not create nor develop and does not own any such third-party websites. RoadGuard Interlock does not endorse nor support the content of, nor any opinions stated in any such third-party website links. RoadGuard Interlock is not responsible for the content of any third-party website or its accuracy or reliability. Nothing contained in this article or in any such third-party website shall be considered legal advice or be deemed to constitute legal advice. For any legal advice concerning a DUI arrest, charge, conviction, or consequences thereof, you should contact an attorney of your choice.