It’s the end of summer, and that means that there will be plenty of parties and events taking place. New school years mean fraternity parties and sorority gatherings at universities, too. Drinking and driving is a particular hazard any time there is a party, event or holiday.
Here are a few that you should watch out for, so you don’t make a poor decision that affects your future. These drinks only usually pop up during the late summer, fall and winter holidays, so prepare yourself with knowledge to know how much you can handle.
Spiked Cider
If you plan to go to an orchard and pick apples or if you’re celebrating a fall harvest festival, spiked cider might be on the list of alcoholic drinks. Hot apple cider doesn’t always have alcohol in it, so don’t be caught off-guard. Always ask if the drink is alcoholic. An average drink has between 6 and 12 percent alcohol by volume.
Hot Toddy
Typically served overseas, a hot toddy is essentially just a bourbon that has been warmed. It has a pinch of lemon and honey added, but that won’t disguise the average 28 percent alcohol by volume in each 8 ounces.
Eggnog
In the late fall and early winter, you might come across eggnog. Many found in grocery stores aren’t alcoholic, but those that do have alcohol are mixed with bourbon. Eggnog has 15 percent alcohol by volume, so with just 14 ounces, you could be over the limit.
These are just a few drinks you might try in the fall and winter months. Seasonal drinks can be great, but if you’re drinking, make sure you have a safe way home. Otherwise, you could face a drunk driving charge. Our website has more on what to do if you’re stopped for drinking and driving.