Holiday Work Parties And DUIs

Are you attending a holiday work party this season? Maybe you’re in charge of planning one? If so, there are several things you need to consider in lead up to the event. First, it is important to understand that, as an employer in Alberta, you are seen by the courts as holding a responsibility for your guests similar to a bar or restaurant owner. In the case where a guest has left your event after consuming alcohol, and is involved in an unfortunate auto accident or charged with a DUI, your company holds an associated responsibility – depending on your due diligence as a social host.

For employees attending a Christmas party this year, it is important to realize that being charged with impaired driving is a serious matter and comes with heavy consequences that involve potential jail time, considerable fines, and the loss of your license. This can have a direct impact on your family life, community involvement, ability to travel abroad, and your current career. Your relationship with your employer could be further strained if you have been charged while operating a company vehicle, which you require the use of for your position of employment.

Tips For Organizing A Safe Company Christmas Party

• Invitations should clearly state that employees should use taxis if they will be drinking at the party.
• Invitations should clearly state that employee attendance is not mandatory.
• Invite spouses or partners, as guest conduct tends to behave better in the presence of a ‘better half’
• Provide non-alcoholic drink options.
• Provide food to balance alcohol consumption.
• Use certified bartenders who are independently insured.
• Provide a taxi chit service at the company’s expense for event transport.
• Limit the amount of alcohol that is available.
• Distribute drink tickets to control the number of drinks per person.
• Look into holding the party at a hotel or conference facility so guests can stay the night.
• Appoint managers to casually monitor guests’ alcohol intake and arrange for taxis for staff who appear intoxicatedf.
• Stop serving alcohol 1 hour before closing the party.

Have You Been Charged With Drunk Driving In Calgary?

The holidays can be a stressful time of the year, as is. If you have been charged with drunk driving in Alberta you need to contact our criminal defense team today so we can begin to defend your case to improve your chances of having your charges dropped or reduced. Don’t hesitate to address these charges, as a conviction can have a serious impact on your family and professional life. Call our drunk driving lawyers in Calgary today and let us help protect your future.

Posted on December 10th, 2013