When you get behind the wheel after drinking, you are putting yourself and others in danger. You may think that you’re fine to drive, but the truth is that alcohol impairs your judgment and slows your reflexes. In just a few minutes, you can become too drunk to drive safely. If you’ve been arrested for drunk driving, or if you’ve had a friend or loved one killed by a drunk driver, it’s time to get help. Here are some tips to help you get over drunk driving and never do it again.
1. Rehab
If you believe that you have a problem with alcohol, it’s important to seek professional help. Consider seeking counseling or enrolling in an addiction program. These programs can help you understand why you drink and how to resist the urge to do it again. People from the Cornerstone Healing Center say that attending a rehabilitation program can give you the tools to resist temptation and stay sober. This is an important step in getting over drunk driving and never doing it again. It’s also essential to find a support system with people who understand your struggles and can help you maintain sobriety.
2. Educate yourself on the dangers of drunk driving
It’s important to remember that when drinking, you are not only putting your own life at risk, but also the lives of everyone else on the road. Understanding the risks associated with drunk driving can motivate you to never get behind the wheel again while under the influence. Read up on statistics related to car crashes caused by drunk drivers, or watch informative videos about alcohol-impaired driving. This will help you understand why it is so important to stay away from alcohol when driving. While the law may require you to have an ignition interlock device installed in your car after a DUI, these devices are no substitute for making the right decision.
3. Set goals for yourself
Creating a plan and setting goals can help you stay on track and get over drunk driving. Think about short-term and long-term objectives, such as replacing drinking with a healthier hobby or joining an alcohol support group. Write down your goals, keep them in plain sight, and check off each item once it is completed. Also, find someone to be your accountability partner who can help you stay on track with your goals. It’s important to have this support system in place and to follow through with your goals. This can help remind you why it is so important to stay away from drinking and driving.
4. Get a designated driver
Don’t put yourself in a situation where you have to drive after drinking. If you are going out with friends or family members who will be consuming alcohol, make sure to designate someone as the sober driver for the evening who can take everyone home safely. While you may have to pay for someone’s cab ride, it will be worth it knowing that you are not drinking and driving. It’s also important to make sure your designated driver knows that they will not be drinking for the evening. This will help them remain focused and sober while they are driving.
5. Try to avoid high-risk situations and understand the consequences
When you’re driving under the influence, it can be easy to forget about the risks and consequences of your actions. That’s why it’s important to take a step back and think about what could happen if you continue drinking and driving. You could get into a serious accident that would injure someone else or yourself, resulting in potentially deadly consequences. Additionally, there may be legal ramifications for your actions, including jail time or steep fines. It’s essential to remember these potential outcomes whenever you start thinking about getting behind the wheel after having even one alcoholic beverage.
6. Seek support
One of the best ways to deal with your guilt and regret is to find someone who can help you work through it. Talk to a trusted friend or family member about what you are going through, and ask for their advice. You might also want to consider seeking professional counseling if you feel like you need additional support. A counselor can provide valuable insight into how to process difficult emotions in healthy ways that will help prevent further slip-ups down the road. Talking things out with someone can be a great way to gain perspective and make sure that you do not repeat your mistake again.
Drunk driving is a serious offense with potentially life-altering consequences. It can be difficult to get over drunk driving and never do it again, but it’s possible with the right strategies. Make sure to find a strong support system to help you stay on track and set goals for yourself. Educate yourself on the dangers of drinking and driving, and always remember to have a designated driver when going out with friends or family members. With the right approach and guidance, you can get over drunk driving and never do it again.