Thanksgiving weekend is a time for family, food, football, and, for many of us, celebrating with a few drinks. It’s a favorite holiday for many, but it also consistently ranks as one of the most dangerous times on the road. We’re talking about impaired driving. It’s a serious topic, and it’s entirely preventable.
The reality is that whether you’re going across state lines or just across town, the roads are more crowded, and the risk is higher. By making a simple plan now, before you even open that bottle of wine or grab a beer, you can ensure your holiday is memorable for the right reasons.
The Plan Starts Before the Party
Safety on Thanksgiving weekend is not a matter of luck; it is a matter of preparation. If you know you will be consuming alcohol, the decision about how you will get home needs to be made before you leave the house.
Relying on a last-second decision is a huge gamble, especially when your judgment is already compromised while drinking. Do not leave your safety to chance.
Here are a few concrete steps you can take to plan ahead:
- Designate a Driver: This is the easiest and best option. Agree with a friend or family member that they will stay sober and drive. Make it a real commitment before the party starts.
- Use Ride-Sharing or Taxi Services: Download the apps and check local availability and estimated fares now. Budgeting for a ride home is far cheaper than the cost of a DUI, medical bills, or, worst of all, a life.
- Arrange to Stay Over: If you are visiting a host who is happy to put you up for the night, take advantage of it. Bring an overnight bag and commit to sleeping on the couch rather than driving home late.
- Leave Your Keys: If you arrive with a host, hand your car keys to them. Ask them to hold the keys until you are sober and ready to leave the next morning. It’s simple, and it works.
The Morning After is Still a Risk
Another crucial point that is often forgotten is the morning after. Many people who feel fine still have enough alcohol in their system to be legally impaired. Furthermore, driving drowsy after a late night is just as dangerous as drunk driving.
If you had a lot to drink on Thursday night, avoid driving on Friday morning. Give your body the time it needs to fully recover. Remember, the only thing that sobers you up is time. Drinking coffee does not work, and neither does a cold shower.
This Thanksgiving, let’s all agree to be responsible and look out for one another.
Wishing safe travels and a happy holiday to you and your loved ones!
Interested in learning more about traffic safety?
Are you looking for defensive driving and traffic school courses? Do you want a discount on your auto insurance? Do you know a teen who’s ready to take an online driver education course?
Safe2Drive is here to help! We offer convenient online courses for drivers of any age! Visit our website today to learn about the online courses we offer in your state.
Thanksgiving weekend is a time for family, food, football, and, for many of us, celebrating with a few drinks. It’s a favorite holiday for many, but it also consistently ranks as one of the most dangerous times on the road. We’re talking about impaired driving. It’s a serious topic, and it’s entirely preventable.