Every two minutes, a person is injured in a drunk driving crash. This statistic likely leaves any of us who have never done it to wonder why people feel the need to do this. There are so many other options of getting around while impaired versus driving yourself, which not only puts your life in danger but the lives of others. It should be known to all what these options are so that we can decrease deaths by drunk driving.
1. Uber
Uber and other services like it have really taken off recently because they come quickly to your location for a decent price to take you to your next location. When you put your card information on the Uber app, you won't even have to worry in your drunken state to find money in a wallet you may or may not have lost at the last party. It's alright- you can get home, and possibly meet a new friend (most Uber drivers are very sociable).
2. The obvious: Get a DD
A designated driver for the night is always a good idea. We all have at least one or two friends in a group who don't drink, but still, like to spend time with friends and go out. Those are your DD's. Granted, they may get annoyed being around drunk people sober (I mean, who really likes that?) but chances are, they'd rather have you safe than leave you to fend for yourself.
3. Sober Monkey
Did you drive your car to an event not expecting to get drunk, but then you do? Services such as Sober Monkey will come to your car with two people- one who will drive your car home, and one to drive you home. This particular company may not be everywhere that you may get drunk, but there are companies everywhere just like it. So for those who don't want to get your car towed overnight and have to have your car with you at all times, this service is for you! (But for the record, even if this service wasn't available, the cost of your car being towed is nothing compared to the cost of possible lives being taken).
4. Public Transportation
If you get drunk early enough, the cost of a bus ride is not that much. For a lot of college kids, it is most likely free. Buses aren't appealing to many people, but better to spend ten minutes on a bus versus risking your life to take yourself in the comfort of your own car. Hey, if you're drunk enough, you probably won't even remember it.
5. Walk
If all else fails, and you are somewhat close enough to walk, then do so, especially if you have friends with you to make sure you find your way. I probably wouldn't recommend this in a sketchy area, but otherwise, this would be better than drunk driving- just make sure you feel safe enough to do it.
Now, I cannot stress enough that if you can't afford an Uber, you have no one to DD for you, you can't find a service like Sober Monkey, all forms of public transportation are down, and your legs are broken and/or home is too far away, maybe you shouldn't be going out to drink and then expect a way home. Drinking is all fun and games until someone gets hurt, and the emotional trauma from accidents related to being impaired are horrible, and totally not worth it. Drink within reason so that you can think, and then either find a smart way to get home or find a safe place to stay that night. Go out with people you can trust, and you will get home okay. But never rely on yourself and think, "I'm not that drunk." You probably are. The legal consequences and possible emotional consequences are way too much. Use the above options, and if all else fails, call someone. It doesn't matter if it's your preacher, your Mom, or someone else who would be highly disappointed in you. I'd guarantee they'd be happier you called drunk for a ride rather than getting a call from the police station.
