The first day of summer signifies celebrations. Family get-togethers, graduation parties, barbecues, and pool parties define summertime, and unfortunately, so do DUI charges. According to the legal team at Coyne, Cundiff & Hillemann, P.C. in Lake St. Louis, Missouri, summer festivities cause a sharp spike in drunk driving, leading to more arrests and an increase in hazards. Many people don’t realize it’s too late until they’re behind the wheel, or worse, being pulled over.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that in 2016, over 7,000 people were arrested for DUI in Missouri, and 3,157 people were killed or injured in car accidents where the contributing factor was alcohol. While it’s important to have fun, it’s also important to stay safe, so follow the tips below to avoid becoming a statistic:

• Don’t Drive: A surefire way to never get a DUI is not to drink and drive. There may be times you feel you have no choice, but there’s always another way. Calling a cab or a friend or family member will always be the best option. Make the extra effort to always carpool with a sober friend, and if you have to drive, don’t drink. DUI and DWI charges can become a smudge on your criminal record, and you’ll need to hire a criminal defense attorney to handle the case.
• Eat Before, During & After Drinking: Keeping food in your stomach is a good way to regulate your blood-alcohol level. Always eat a full meal before drinking—the food helps your body digest the alcohol. Taking a break to eat is also an excellent way to stop drinking for a while, so use the opportunity to keep yourself under the legal limit.
• Track Your Drinking: Unless you buy a Breathalyzer to check yourself, it’s difficult to track your blood-alcohol content (BAC). However, you can get a rough estimate based on your body weight and how much you’ve had to drink. There are many mobile apps as well, so take the initiative to stop and check now and then. And it’s important to note, BAC is calculated differently for women than it is for men.

A DUI is a quick way to take the fun out of summer, so practice safe drinking habits when you go out. If you are arrested, turn to criminal defense attorneys at Coyne, Cundiff & Hillemann, P.C. They have over 75 years of combined experience defending criminal cases and will work with you to achieve a positive outcome. Call (636) 561-5599 today to schedule a consultation and visit their website and Facebook to learn more about their practice.