Drinking and driving is a major cause of accidents, injuries, and deaths. Even a small amount of alcohol can slow your reaction time and affect your judgment, making driving dangerous for you and others.
Fortunately, there are many ways to get home without drinking and driving, such as using rideshare apps, public transportation, or arranging a sober driver in advance. Following these tips ensures you can have fun without putting anyone at risk or breaking the law.
Here are seven ways to avoid driving under the influence:
1. Make a Plan for a Safe Ride Home
Before you go out, plan how you’ll get home, whether it’s a taxi, rideshare, or a sober friend. Planning ahead removes the stress of deciding while under the influence and lets you enjoy the night worry-free. Share your plan with a friend so someone knows how you’re getting home.
Consider having a backup option in case your first plan falls through, such as a second rideshare service or an alternative friend who can pick you up. Planning multiple options increases your chances of a safe, stress-free journey home.
2. Use Rideshare or Taxi Services
Apps like Uber, Lyft, or local taxi services make it easy to get home safely. They operate late into the night and allow you to track your route or share your location with friends. This adds a sense of security while ensuring you avoid risky decisions.
Check reviews and ratings of drivers or services if possible, and confirm the car’s make, model, and license plate before getting in to ensure you’re entering the right vehicle. Safety tips and precautions like these minimize risks during your ride.
3. Assign a Sober Driver
When out with friends, nominate someone to stay alcohol-free and drive everyone home. This ensures everyone returns safely and encourages responsible drinking among the group. It’s a simple way to prevent accidents before they happen.
Rotate the responsibility regularly if you go out often, so no single person is consistently giving up drinking, and everyone learns to respect the role of the designated driver. This keeps the group accountable and promotes fairness.
4. Stay Overnight at a Friend’s Place or Hotel
If getting home safely is difficult, consider staying overnight at a friend’s house or nearby hotel. This eliminates the risk of driving under the influence and gives you a chance to rest. Keeping a small overnight bag handy can make this option convenient.
Scout locations ahead of time, and make sure the place is safe and reliable so you’re not scrambling late at night. Preparing in advance reduces stress and makes the choice to stay over easy and practical.
5. Set Personal Alcohol Limits
Pace yourself by alternating alcoholic drinks with water or soft drinks. Keeping track of your drinks with an app can help you stay within your limits and reduce the risk of being impaired. Staying mindful of your intake makes it easier to make safe choices.
Know your personal tolerance and stick to it; don’t feel pressured by peers to drink more than is safe for you. Being proactive about limits helps you maintain control over your decisions and health.
6. Use Public Transportation
Buses, trains, and streetcars provide a safe, economical way to get home. While schedules may vary, planning your trip ahead ensures you have a reliable way back. Public transportation removes the pressure of organizing a personal ride and is a solid backup when other options aren’t available.
Check for late-night schedules or special holiday services in advance, and have a transit app ready to monitor any delays. Being informed ensures you won’t be stranded and can plan alternate routes if needed.
7. Seek Support and Reminders
Use apps or text reminders to keep yourself accountable for responsible behavior. You can also let a friend know your plans so they can check in on you if needed. This “safety net” encourages smart decisions and helps you avoid dangerous situations.
Consider joining a group chat or safety network with friends who share the same goals for responsible behavior; peer support can reinforce your choices and keep everyone safe. Consistent accountability increases the likelihood of following through with safe plans.
Conclusion
Avoiding drinking and driving protects your life and the lives of others and keeps you out of legal trouble. Planning ahead, using safe transport options, and pacing yourself with alcohol are simple steps that make a big difference. No matter how tempting it may seem, it’s never worth getting behind the wheel while impaired; your safety and the safety of others come first.
