Every year, the holiday season has many different foods and drinks that contain alcohol. What some people don’t realize is that the alcohol could be so strong that they could end up with a DUI.
This year, it is important that you take some time to think about which items you eat or drink that might have hidden alcohol. For example, did you know that there are several kinds of eggnog? There are alcoholic eggnogs, and there are non-alcoholic eggnogs as well. Don’t assume that all eggnog is going to have alcohol. Ask the host or make sure that you buy the kind that does not contain alcohol if you intend to drive after drinking it.
Watch out for the punch
Many families choose to have a cranberry punch available. This usually has a clear soda, like Sprite, as well as a cranberry juice concentrate. Some people mix in vodka or rum. If you decide to partake in the holiday punch, make sure you ask if it contains alcohol. If you make punch with alcohol, be sure to let others know that it contains alcohol as well. You don’t want someone to drive because they mistakenly believe that what they had to drink was non-alcoholic.
Your dinner could contain alcohol, too
There are also some dishes that could contain alcohol unexpectedly. For example, wine could be added to a fruitcake to make it more flavorful, or a cooked turkey or ham could be basted in alcohol to give it a more specific flavor.
Whether you are hosting a party or someone else is hosting, everyone should be honest about which items do or do not contain alcohol. Doing that will help prevent guests and yourself from driving dangerously after ingesting alcohol.
What should you do if you are stopped and accused of drinking following a holiday party?
If you are accused of drinking and driving, it is important that you understand your rights. You do not have to admit to drinking, but if an officer asks you to take a Breathalyzer test, then you will need to do so unless you are willing to lose your license. If you are arrested, you can ask for your attorney.
