As we approach New Year’s Eve
– one of the biggest party dates of the year – we feel compelled
to issue the ubiquitous warning: Don’t drink and drive.
As we approach New Year’s Eve – one of the biggest party dates of the year – we feel compelled to issue the ubiquitous warning: Don’t drink and drive.
In every method available to it, society actively discourages drunken driving. The message is everywhere: Anti-drunk-driving campaigns fill every form of media, many featuring celebrities. Police officers are on the prowl, trying to catch drunken drivers. Those convicted face stiff fines, lost licenses and jail time.
And think of the guilt, the burden of living with the knowledge that you seriously injured or killed someone because you were driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
And yet, this holiday’s DUI arrests are ahead of last year’s.
So, celebrate the arrival of 2005. Enjoy the company of dear friends and loved ones. But don’t drink and drive.
It’s a simple matter. If you’re in a group, designate a driver who won’t drink.
Many restaurants and bars offer free non-alcoholic drinks for designated drivers. If you’re alone at an event, call a cab (Yellow Cab in South County is at 842-6333).
Mothers Against Drunk Driving offers tips to help reduce the number of drunk drivers:
• Eat plenty of food while you’re celebrating.
• If you’re hosting a party, don’t push drinks on guests.
• Office party hosts should consider arranging for free or discounted hotel rooms for guests.
• Party hosts should plan activities and entertainment so that drinking is not the only focus of the event.
• Close the bar at least 90 minutes before the end of the party; only time sobers someone who has been drinking.
The worst possible way to welcome 2005 would be from a morgue, from a hospital bed, or from a jail cell.
Don’t drink and drive.
