Drunken Driving Prevention

Earlier in “A family’s life changed by a drunk driver”, readers learned about Mandy and her family’s terrifying ordeal with an intoxicated driver high on crystal meth and alcohol. The emotional costs of that wreck were immeasurable for Mandy’s family. The financial expenses were massive when all of the medical expenditures, physical damage and legal costs were calculated. A cab ride would have cost the offender much less than the money, time, and stress incurred from such a preventable disaster.

Not only do drunken drivers have to worry about the monetary consequences but jail time will be issued, even if it is just an overnight stay. With the number of resources available for intoxicated drivers, there really is no excuse for inebriated driving.

Tips for to prevent driving while under the influence:
1. Make a plan before going out. Decide if you are using a designated driver, staying at a nearby hotel, or using a cab or designated driver service.
2. If going out with friends, agree on the plan together and make a pact that no one will drive if he or she has been drinking. If you or a friend has a history of driving after drinking, then agree to hide that person’s keys.
3. Set aside money for the cab or hotel in advance. Keep it separate from drink money.
4. Before you leave for the night, do a quick internet search on the costs and emotional and physical ramifications associated with driving while under the influence. This is a nice reminder of how cheap a cab or hotel is in the long run.

There are a number of designated driver programs available. Here are a few:

Aneheuser-Busch

AAA

National Director of Designated Driver Services

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, Broward County Early Childhood Parenting Examiner

Rhonda Hines, an avid contributor to Broward County Early Childhood Parenting Examiner, is an enthusiastic mom to a high energy toddler. Rhonda's experience as a broadcaster and journalist combined with her experience as a mother has made her a knowledgeable writer for the Examiner. She...

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