Drinking in the New Year: How to Celebrate Without Drinking and Driving

With the end of the year coming up, many of our calendars are filling up with holiday parties: ugly sweaters, food, get-togethers and adult beverages. Plenty of grown-ups like having something to sip on at these events. Could you imagine dealing with that overly talkative coworker, or the in-law who always has something to say, without a drink?

We're all for everybody having a good time this season. But some of you (you know who you are) get a little too excited when you have a few days off work and hear the words "open bar."

Some of you may say a hangover is worth a great night out. To the under-25 crowd: yes, there will come a day when hangovers last longer than a few hours. Enjoy your youth! If the only price of a fun night is a hangover, that's a night well done. Too often, though, people leave holiday parties saying they're fine to drive when they're anything but. Here are a few things to remember this holiday season.

How do you know your limit?

Do you really want to show up to the office on January 2nd feeling like everybody is looking at you? Guess what, they are. Because you took eight shots of tequila and told your boss exactly what you think of them. Sounds ridiculous? What's really ridiculous is the open bar getting banned from every future party because the first three shots weren't enough. Pace yourself, eat something, drink water between drinks and know when to call it a night.

What are your options for a safe ride home?

Getting a ride has never been easier. Between public transit, ride-share apps and taxis, you have plenty of ways to get home without driving yourself. You can also pick a designated driver before the party starts. So whatever excuse you were planning to use won't work here.

What happens if you get a DUI?

For those of you who are still feeling stubborn, you can take this advice or be ready to need an SR-22. An SR-22 is a certificate your insurance company files with the state to show you carry the required coverage, and it's often required after serious violations like a DUI.

Keep in mind that drivers who need an SR-22 usually pay more for coverage, and you may have to keep it for a few years (often around three, depending on your state and your case). On top of risking your life, you could be paying for one bad decision for years. So ask yourself, is it really worth it?

We hope you all have an amazing and safe New Year.

How A-MAX can help

If you do need an SR-22, A-MAX can file it, usually the same day, with no judgment. Walk into one of our 240+ offices or call 1-800-921-AMAX to talk with an agent in English or Spanish.