Very few people get behind the wheel knowing that they’re too drunk to drive. Usually, people think they’re not impaired enough to get a DWI, simply because of the way alcohol affects the brain. You may feel fine or think that you haven’t had enough alcohol to be above the legal limit, but none of that matters when the red and blue lights are flashing behind you. The best way to beat a drunk-driving ticket is to avoid driving under the influence in the first place. In order to do that, you need to know what signs to look for in order to know whether it’s safe to get behind the wheel or not.

1. Have You Had More than Three Drinks?

NOLO has put together a fantastic table of how many drinks a person can consume before becoming legally drunk. If you’re 160 pounds, the magic number is three. This isn’t a steadfast number, as men can typically handle more alcohol than women, some people metabolize alcohol slower, and other factors can impact how a person handles their drinks. However, the table can serve as a guide if you’re trying to manage your consumption before you go out.

2. What’s Your Estimated Blood-Alcohol Content?

The state of Oklahoma has an online calculator that will determine an estimated BAC based on gender, weight, number of drinks consumed, and the amount of time you spent drinking.

3. Can You Pass Impairment Tests?

There are many apps available that are designed to test your impairment level based on reaction times and cognitive tests. Maryland’s Motor Vehicle Administration created an app called ENDUI, which is free in iTunes and the GooglePlay store, and contains several helpful features, including two games. The first tests your reaction time and the second will help test your ability to focus.

4. What’s Your Actual BAC?

There are also personal devices available for purchase that work similarly to a Breathalyzer that an officer would use. Some of them operate in conjunction with a smartphone, while others are independent devices that can attach to your keyring. Prices vary depending on the type of unit you purchase, but many are available for less than $50. USA Today tested a few major brands and found the Bactrack brand to provide the most reliable results.

5. Why Do You Think You Might Get a DWI?

Fortune Magazine ran their own experiments on personal BAC testers and found that most of them are unreliable. Moreover, they didn’t register their tester as being intoxicated when he knew he wasn’t safe to drive. The moral of the story is that if you think you might have had too much to drink, don’t get behind the wheel.

Raleigh DWI Attorney

The decision to get behind the wheel after drinking is made in an instant, but the consequences can last a lifetime. If you’re involved in a legal situation, you’re going to need help from an expert who can help ensure you’re treated fairly. We’ll fight aggressively on your behalf so that you can move forward with your life. Please contact us online for a consultation, or speak to one of our attorneys now by calling 919-833-5555.