Your 21st birthday is a day that you have likely anticipated for a long time. This is mostly because it means that you are now old enough to legally consume alcohol. However, it is important that you understand how to do so responsibly.
Don’t Drink and Drive
You should never operate a motor vehicle after drinking beer, liquor or anything else that has alcohol in it. This is because even a single drink can impair your ability to process information while driving. If you are planning on drinking while out on the town, be sure to designate a friend or colleague as a designated driver. Alternatively, you can call an Uber or take a party bus to your destination. If you are in a crash, an auto accident attorney may be able to help you obtain a favorable outcome in your case.
Never Leave a Drink Unattended
It is easy for someone to spike or lace your drink with chemicals in a matter of seconds. These chemicals could cause you to lose consciousness, which may leave you vulnerable to being robbed or sexually assaulted. In most cases, you won’t be able to smell or see these chemicals. Therefore, it is generally a good idea to order a new drink after getting up to use the bathroom or to put a song on the jukebox.
Know Your Limits
It is important that you maintain some level of self control even after having an adult beverage or two. While you may think that texting your love interest is funny or cute while drunk, you may regret sending those messages the next morning. Ideally, you will leave the phone at home or take other steps to ensure that you don’t say or do anything while drunk that could damage personal or professional relationships.
Make Sure to Eat Before Drinking
Generally speaking, you’ll do a better job holding your liquor on a full stomach. This is because the food can absorb the alcohol and stop you from getting intoxicated too quickly. Eating before you drink may also make it less likely that you spend too much money on fast food while drunk or impaired.
Your 21st birthday is among the last major milestones that you’ll hit as a young adult. Therefore, it is important that you take time to celebrate your coming of age. However, it is also important that you understand what it means to drink responsibly on your birthday and for the rest of your life.