Did you know about three in 10 of all traffic collision fatalities in the U.S. involve drunk motorists? That's according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which adds that 37 people across the country die daily in drunk-driving crashes.
By now, everyone knows it's never a good idea to drink and drive. But many people throw caution to the wind and do so anyway. Sometimes, the perpetrators honestly believe they didn't drink nearly enough to impair their motor skills, while other times, it's defiant ignorance.
Whatever the reasons, the bottom line is driving after drinking is never a good idea.
In most U.S. states, you're considered impaired if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or more. If you're under 21 years old, however, the legal BAC could range from 0.00 to 0.02.
If you're planning a night on the town and plan to indulge in alcohol, knowing how you're going to get home safely is essential.
Here are four ways to get home after a night with good company.
- Get a Ride from a Sober Friend
Are you going to party with people who don't drink or are willing to abstain so they can drive people home afterward? That's one option. A designated driver can party heartily with everyone else -- minus the alcohol. You don't have to imbibe to have a good time.
A designated driver can also help ensure that no one drinks too much. No one wants an obnoxious passenger. After a night of partying ends, the designated driver can ensure everyone gets home safely. Plan ahead if the goal is for someone in the group to be the designated driver.
- Take a Taxi
Another option is to call a cab. It's an easy way to get home after a night of drinking. You don't need to roll the dice and drive home after having a few drinks. In addition to risking DUI charges -- which are criminal charges -- you risk damaging yourself, others, and property.
You may face imprisonment, community service, fines, or probation if convicted of driving under the influence. It's not worth the risk when considering how easy it is to call a cab.
- Ask a Loved One for a Ride
Yet another option is to get a ride from a family member or a friend. Inform them you'll be out with friends and need a ride home after the festivities. Work out an approximate pick-up time and stay in touch so you can confirm pick-up plans when you know when you want to leave.
- Book a Rideshare
When it comes to ridesharing, the major players in the U.S. are Uber and Lyft. Using an app, you can book a ride right to your front door. The driver will use their personal vehicle to pick you up and drop you at home. Booking and payment are done through the app, so cash doesn't have to change hands.
Driving While Impaired Isn't Worth the Risk
Remember that driving while impaired can lead to severe consequences. As was mentioned earlier, around three in 10 car accident fatalities involve drunk driving. If you're out on the road and get into an accident, the impact can be life-changing, whether you're a driver or a passenger. Knowing how to handle such situations when you're stressed out and in panic mode is vital.
In addition to calling the police, see your doctor and contact a car accident lawyer. An accident could trigger a chain of events that changes the course of your life in the worst possible ways.
That's one reason to reach out to professionals who can help you get back on your feet.
