New Years is one of the worst days in terms of drunk driving accidents. Although this is a holiday notorious for drinking alcohol, it is important to behave responsibly, both on and off the road. This blog post will go over ways to avoid driving drunk on New Years Eve.

For Party Hosts

If you’re hosting a party, you likely won’t have to worry about driving drunk yourself. However, you do have to take accountability for your guests. Ask your guests if they have a designated driver, or offer a place for them to stay the night if they had too much. Confiscate their keys at the door so you can monitor who is able and unable to drive, or offer alternative transportation if they can’t drive home safely.

For Party Goers

If you’re going out to a party, you have to take special precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. Make sure you have a designated driver, or take a taxi, bus, or rideshare service to help you get home safely. Give your keys to the host, or stay over at your friend’s house if you are unable to drive. You can also ask your friends to take your car keys away from you if you get too intoxicated. Try going to a bar in walking distance to avoid driving altogether. If driving is unavoidable, don’t have more than 1-2 alcoholic drinks, or stick with non-alcoholic drinks.

Alternative Methods of Transportation

·      Public Transportation: Instead of driving your own car, take the bus or train.

·      Taxis

·      Rideshare Services: Uber, Lyft

·      Sober Ride Programs: Many states offer Sober Ride programs. Simply google your state and see which programs are available to you (before heading out to drink).

·      Tipsy Tow: AAA offers a free towing service to those in Alaska, Arizona, Northern California, Florida, Nevada, Montana, Ohio, Utah, and Wyoming. Don’t worry – they offer this service to non-AAA members, too!

Drinking Tips

·      Have a full glass of water in between drinks to help your mind stay more alert.

·      Don’t drink on an empty stomach.

·      Since the body processes different types of alcohol differently, don’t mix your drinks (like beer, wine, and other spirits).

·      It takes 30-60 minutes to feel the full effects of an alcoholic beverage. Be sure to wait an hour before driving to make sure that you’re not under the influence.

·      Think of the consequences. Drunk driving can cause injuries and deaths, and you can be charged with a felony and have to pay expensive fees if you are caught.

·      Tell your friends about your plans to not drink so much – they can hold you accountable.