While the holidays are a great time to celebrate with friends and family, they are also known for increased cases of drunk driving. According to BACtrack, “During the Christmas period…an average of 45 fatalities involving an alcohol-impaired driver occurred each day.” Drunk driving is a major issue and one to take seriously, especially during the holidays. Take preventative steps to not only ensure your safety but your friend’s and family’s as well.
Make a Plan – Knowing what you are getting yourself into is a huge step before you leave the house. Taking the necessary steps can make a major difference in your night out. For example, know who you are going out with, where you are going and how you are getting back. Sticking to a plan allows you to maintain control and prevent issues, such as staying out too late and missing the last bus or promising six individuals in a car with only four seats. These miscommunications and oversights are what can lead to someone trying to ‘take one for the team’ and getting behind the wheel.
Decide on a Designated Driver – Decide on your designated driver before you leave the house. There is nothing more unfair than forcing the keys on someone who is not able to drive. If you are the designated driver, make it the clear to all individuals you are with so you are not roped into drinking when you cannot. Being clear and honest is the perfect way to stay sober and safe. The same is true for those who are drinking; do not buy your designated driver drinks or pressure them into drinking.
Stay in Moderation - Even if you are not driving, that does not give you a free pass to be incessantly reckless. Getting far too drunk is not only obnoxious to your friends but you should be there in case your designated driver may have a question for directions or wants to have a conversation with coherent individuals.
Research Public Transit – Many cities or towns have buses or transit routes from downtown areas and many of them are free or only a few dollars. If you do not research the routes before you leave, many bars will have schedules available to you. Just keep in mind that some buses will stop running even before last call is announced, so you may not be able to stay until closing.
Embrace Technology – With a smartphone, you can provide a safe ride home to your friends. Applications such as Uber and Lyft allow you to send a car to your destination and bring you home. These apps allow you to view your car’s destination, your driver, and even rate them at the end of the ride. Another great aspect is that you can pay through a card on your smartphone so you do not even need cash.
If you are pulled over for a DUI, be ready to face the consequences. Not only will you be charged with a potential felony, lose your license temporarily, and face court fees, it can also greatly impact your insurance. Every insurance provider has different repercussions but they can range from increased rates, losing any discounts or special offers you may have earned due to safe driving, to even more severe ones. Some insurance providers may completely drop you all together. Every consecutive DUI you receive will have increased fees, and some may even result in jail time. Regardless of which takes place, it is never good.
Drunk driving is a major issue and one that should not be taken lightly. By taking preventative steps, you can help not only save your own life but also protect your friends and family.