There's a reason I'm sharing this story. I've seen someone whose life completely changed after getting a DUI. At first, I thought, "Is it really that big of a deal to drive after having a little to drink?" But after watching them struggle for months, I realized it's definitely not a simple issue.

Riverside is a city where it's hard to get by without a car. Whether going to gatherings or dining out, you take your car. This often leads to the mindset of having a beer or two with dinner and thinking, "This should be fine." But that's the most dangerous thought.

In California, the general rule is that drivers over 21 are considered to be driving under the influence (DUI) if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. For commercial vehicles, the limit is 0.04%, and there are much stricter standards for those under 21. More importantly, just because you're under 0.08% doesn't mean you're in the clear. If you're deemed unable to drive normally due to alcohol or drugs, you can still face DUI charges.

And thinking that getting a DUI means just paying a fine and moving on is a big misconception.

Even for a first offense, court proceedings can begin, leading to probation, DUI education programs, and issues with your license. When you add in various court costs, the actual financial burden can grow to thousands of dollars. Depending on the situation, you might also face jail time or community service, and the DMV may initiate separate license suspension procedures. You may even need to install an Ignition Interlock Device, which is a breathalyzer in your car.

From what I've seen, the time commitment is even more challenging than the money. You have to meet with a lawyer, go to court, attend classes, and resolve DMV issues. For someone with a job, this means taking time off repeatedly. When it comes time to renew your car insurance, another set of problems can arise. Your premiums may skyrocket, or your current insurer might hesitate to renew your policy.

If a second DUI occurs within ten years, the situation becomes much more serious. The likelihood and duration of jail time increase, and longer DUI education programs or IID installation may be required. In California, the ten-year period is crucial when calculating DUI history, so don't think, "It's been a few years, so I'm fine now."

In Riverside Downtown or around Mission Inn, there are many places to have a drink in the evening. The problem is that you often have to drive home afterward. Riverside police also conduct DUI checkpoints and enforcement.

Among Korean gatherings, there used to be a mindset of "What's the big deal about a few shots of soju?" but in the U.S., that's really not acceptable. If an accident occurs and someone gets hurt, it can escalate far beyond a simple DUI.

So the solution is very simple. If you're going to drink, leave your car at home. Don't think twice about spending $30 or $50 on an Uber or Lyft. When you consider the costs of a DUI—lawyer fees, fines, education costs, increased insurance premiums, and the time involved—taxi fare is really nothing.

If you're going out with a group, it's also a good idea to designate a driver from the start. Saying, "Let's see how it goes and decide later" can lead to poor judgment after drinking.

A DUI in the U.S. is not a minor mistake you can brush off. Especially in Riverside, where cars are a part of daily life, any issues with your license can shake up your job and daily routine. Not holding onto your car keys on drinking days is ultimately the cheapest and most reliable method.