Grabbing a few drinks with friends after work or on the weekends may be a relatively common occurrence for you. You may enjoy this time as a way to catch up with some people you may not see very often or as a way to vent about issues in your workplace with people you see almost daily. Whatever the reason for the outing, you likely always have a good time.

Of course, it is important to remember that consuming alcohol puts you at various risks. If you drink too much, you could face impaired abilities. At the very least, having too much to drink could result in you doing something embarrassing, like dancing when you normally would not or texting an ex. However, having even a couple of drinks could put you at risk of a DUI charge if you get behind the wheel.

Options for getting home

You undoubtedly do not want to risk your own safety and the safety of others by drinking and driving, and you certainly do not want a Tennessee police officer to pull you over and accuse you of DUI. As a result, you may want to consider the following options for getting home safely after drinking:

• Public transportation: You may live in an area that has regular bus pickup or other forms of public transportation, and utilizing those options could help you get home safely.
• Ride-sharing: Calling an Uber or Lyft is increasingly common these days, and having quick access to a ride-share app could help you get a ride home. However, make sure you are getting into the right vehicle and that you wait for your ride in a safe area.
• Avoid walking: If you do not live too far from where you met up with your friends, you may think that you can prevent yourself from drinking and driving by simply walking home afterward. Before you choose this option, remember that walking can be a dangerous activity after consuming alcohol.

Depending on where you live and who makes up your group of friends, you may have other options for getting home as well. Thoroughly reviewing your options may help you land on the best choice for yourself.

Facing a DUI charge

Of course, the possibility does exist that you could end up in a situation where you feel unsafe and do not have time to wait for a ride. As a result, you may get behind the wheel yourself. If so, you may have defense options against a DUI charge if one should come against you. Additionally, if you only had one drink or otherwise genuinely believe you are not intoxicated and drive, that information could also play a role in a DUI defense.

Still, it is important that you go over the specific details of your situation to determine your best defense options if you face charges.