It’s almost 2018, and New Year’s is one of the largest celebrations of the year. New hopes, new dreams, new resolutions – but as you prepare for the New Year, know that it is also one of the most dangerous holidays of the year. Alcohol flows like water on New Year’s and there will no doubt be a slew of Texans experiencing their first DWIs this year. We’re here to make sure you don’t – and if you do, we’re here to help you afterwards.
Here’s a short list of tips to help you prevent yourself from ending up in a jail cell when the countdown hits zero.
First and foremost – don’t drink and drive! New Year’s is one of the days of the year with the highest rate of drunk driving. Prior to going out – prior to getting dressed – you should plan for alternative transportation. Download some ridesharing apps, save a web page with the bus/train schedule to your phone or designate a responsible sober driver.
If you plan to drink, pace yourself. Many people follow the “one drink per hour” adage and think they are fine to drive as long as they don’t exceed that limit. But that rule is based on averages, and everyone reacts different to alcohol. Just because you follow the rule does not mean your BAC is low enough to drive legally. Even if it is, you may be more inebriated than you think. Alternate between alcoholic drinks and water, and pace yourself.
Eat before you drink, and snack while you are drinking. Having food in your stomach can help prevent alcohol from absorbing too quickly, allowing it more time to metabolize in the body.
Don’t fall for any myths about sobering up. Coffee will not help. A cold shower will not help. The only thing that can sober you up is time.
Stay safe, Texas, and Happy New Year’s!
Mike Goolsby
A veteran in both civil court cases and criminal defense, Mike Goolsby is a respected lawyer with more than 16 years of experience practicing law. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of North Texas in 1990, followed by his J.D. from the prestigious Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 1994.
After earning his law degree, Mr. Goolsby worked as an Assistant District Attorney for the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office. As a trial lawyer, he was able to gain exceptional access to the criminal court system in this major metropolitan area, giving him immeasurable, distinct experience that helped him build a solid foundation for his own private legal practice.
Mr. Goolsby went on to practice civil law for Maverick Acceptance Group, a venture capital company. Here, he gained invaluable knowledge of the civil side of the law, adding to his already diverse portfolio of legal expertise.
In 1999, he opened the doors of The Goolsby Law Firm and has been successfully serving the residents of North Texas ever since. As an attorney, Mr. Goolsby combines his experience in both the civil and criminal fields to offer unmatched legal representation to his clients. With a long list of satisfied clients, Mr. Goolsby continues to build his practice through fair and aggressive legal defense.