Every year people driving under the influence play a big part in causing fatal traffic accidents (last year in US alone there was over 10 000 fatalities caused by drunk driver). It is not just dangerous for you and the others, it is also illegal and can put you in prison and/or cost plenty in fines.

There's an easy way to make sure you don't get in trouble, and that is never driving drunk. There are several ways to ensure you won't end up doing it.

When going out to party, use public transportation (bus, subway, taxi) or agree with your friends who will be the designated driver. Rotate the person every time to make sure everybody can pitch in. If it feels strange to not have a drink in your hand at a party where everybody seems to be drinking, have your usual cocktails, just ask the bartender to skip the alcohol or drink non-alcoholic beer or dealcoholized wines. Leaving your car home in the first place is a sure way of avoiding driving drunk.

If you end up in a situation where you have a car but you still would like to drink, move your car in a secure parking spot before you have your first drink and take a taxi home. You can pick the car up the next day. In some cities there are designated driver services who will drive you home in your own car for a fee. See if there's one in your area and keep their phone number in your car and cell phone.

If you have children, remember that you are setting and example for them for life, so never tolerate drunk driving or do it yourself. You might not be just saving the lives of yourself and your kids but also possible innocent bystanders who might get hurt in drunk driving accidents.