(Newswire.net — March 14, 2024) — Going out with friends and unwinding after a long week can be a cherished ritual for many. However, a night of fun should never end in tragedy due to drunk driving. With the right precautions, you can create an enjoyable evening that also ensures everyone gets home safely. Here’s a comprehensive guide for proactively preventing drunk driving.
Designate a Sober Driver
The Sacramento accident attorneys at Rosenthal Law Firm highly recommend that you decide who will be the designated driver for the night before you head out to avoid getting involved in a drunk driving accident. This person should be committed to not drinking any alcohol and responsible for driving everyone home safely. If you’re taking turns with friends, ensure everyone understands when it’s their night to stay sober.
Utilize Public Transport
Before planning your evening, check what public transportation options are available. Many cities offer extended hours for buses or trains on weekends. Plan your night around the public transport schedule. Not only does this promote safety, but it also eliminates parking concerns.
Download Ridesharing Apps
If public transport isn’t an option, plan to use ridesharing services such as Uber or Lyft. Download the app beforehand, set up an account, and familiarize yourself with how it works. That way, when it’s time to head home, you can quickly and easily request a ride.
Store Taxi Numbers in Your Phone
Sometimes smartphone batteries die, or the signal is lost. Before heading out, save the phone numbers of local taxi services in your phone. This simple step can make all the difference in making a safe transportation choice when it’s time to leave.
Consider Nearby Lodging
If you’re planning a big night at a location far from home, consider booking a nearby hotel room or finding a local Airbnb. This allows you and your friends to enjoy yourselves without worrying about the trip back and can make the evening even more memorable.
Stay Where You Are
Inquire about your chosen venue’s closing times; you might be able to wait out your buzz. Some establishments stay open late, serving food and non-alcoholic drinks, providing a safe environment until you’re ready to leave.
Eat Well and Stay Hydrated
Drinking on an empty stomach increases the effects of alcohol. Ensure you and your friends have a good meal before starting to drink. Also, keeping hydrated with water throughout the night can help reduce the overall consumption of alcohol.
Keep Track of Your Alcohol Intake
Keep an eye on how much you and your friends are consuming. Set a limit for yourself before you start drinking and stick to it. Encourage your friends to do the same.
Have a Plan for Friends Who Overindulge
Sometimes, even the best-laid plans go awry. If a friend ends up drinking too much, have a plan in place. This may involve taking their keys, calling them a cab, or making sure they can stay somewhere safe for the night.
Encourage Responsible Behavior
Peer pressure can be a powerful influence. Encourage your friends to drink responsibly, be supportive of those who decide not to drink, and never urge someone to drink more than they intend to.
Be Aware of Substance Interactions
Remind friends that mixing alcohol with certain medications or illegal substances can increase impairment and risk. Encourage them to understand the effects of these combinations.
Know the Signs of Intoxication
Recognize when someone is too intoxicated to drive. Slurred speech, impaired coordination, and delayed reaction times are clear indicators. If you spot these signs, step in to ensure that they do not get behind the wheel.
Implementing these strategies can contribute significantly to a safe night out. Always prioritize safety over convenience, and remember that the decisions you make can affect not just you and your friends, but others on the road. Drunk driving is entirely preventable, and by planning, you contribute to a happier, healthier community. Cheers to good times and safe travels!