May is an exciting time of the year for many reasons. It brings along longer days, warmer weather, and signals the end of some high school or college careers. While years of hard work, long hours, and many essays should be celebrated, it’s essential to keep your future in mind when doing so.
Driving under the influence can have a significant impact on your life and that of those around you. Arizona has a zero-tolerance policy for anyone under the age of 21 to possess or consume alcohol. When driving with alcohol in your system, regardless of the amount, you can be charged with a DUI. Having a DUI on your record can have a long-term effect beyond your summer and the start of school in the fall. Consequences could be detrimental to your academic standing, scholarship status, college housing, and could limit future professional opportunities.
Keep your future in mind and make a plan before you go out, and if you’re under 21, avoid alcohol entirely. Consider the safety of yourself and others with the following tips:
- Coordinate a designated driver before leaving home.
- Have a rider share app ready on your phone or look up what public transportation is available.
- If you are not confident you’ll be safe, give your keys to a trusted sober friend.
- Set up a friendly check-in with a sober friend to make sure you arrive home safely.
- Never get in a car with a driver who is impaired.
- If you’re out on the road and see an impaired driver, don’t engage, pull over and call the police.
While celebrating a significant milestone like graduation is essential, for the safety of everyone, it should be done responsibly. To learn more information on how to plan a safe night out visit, MaricopaCountyAttorney.org/DUI