How to Stop Drunk Driving

You might not think that you can stop drunk driving– after all, how can one person reach out to the hundreds of drunk drivers who make that foolish choice on any given day? Well, you might not be able to save everyone from taking that fatal risk, but you can make a difference in the lives of your friends, family and community.

The drunk driving statistics are heartbreaking. Every years tens of thousands of people die from driving drunk or being hit by a drunk driver. You might know someone whose life was taken away from drunk driving and feel the immediate, personal need to change these statistics. Or you might be worried that your life or the lives of others are in jeopardy. Either way, it’s important that you consider the following to help stop drunk driving.

How to Stop Drunk Driving

These are some of the necessary steps you can take to help curb the number of drunk drivers who get behind the wheel.

#1) Address the person you’re concerned about.

Whether it’s your spouse, your teenager or even you. The first, most important step is to address the issue of drunk driving with someone who you feel might do it. If it’s your teenage kid, they might be afraid to tell you they’ve been drinking and are afraid to ask for a ride. If it’s you or someone else close, you might be concerned that drinking habits could lead to drunk driving. Talk about getting help for excessive drinking and come up with a plan that would act as an alternative to getting behind the wheel.

#2) Take preventative measures.

If you are going to drink– give your keys to someone else. Call a cab before you’re drunk so you can’t change your mind. If your kid is going to a party, plan on picking them up and avoid any poor decision making. If your friend or partner is drinking, make sure you limit yourself to one so you can be the driver.

#3) Never let pride/fear/money get in the way.

Don’t be ashamed to ask for a ride– people appreciate responsible drinkers. Also, never let someone you care about fear asking you for a ride. Make sure you never let anyone feel ashamed for asking for help. The ride from a party/bar to home might be long– really long. If you have to take a $50 cab ride, so be it. At least you’re being safe.

#4) Make it a mission. Make it a priority.

Ending drunk driving takes a commitment. It means always offering rides to people you know are drinking. Now that it’s the holiday season, there are going to be a lot of parties. Make it your duty to be the designated driver for a group of people. Also– consider getting more involved in the community. There are plenty of organizations like MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) that could use your help.