Meeting for Drinks? Getting Home Safely During COVID-19

As some restrictions lift and businesses reopen, you may consider meeting a friend or family member for a drink to catch up (while socially distancing). Before making plans, be sure to review the latest information from the CDC on going out, keeping in mind “the more closely you interact with others and the longer that interaction, the higher the risk of COVID-19 spread.” If you have made the decision to venture out and enjoy one another’s company, today’s post includes tips on getting home safely in the midst of COVID-19.

Impaired Driving is Dangerous
The National Safety Council found that “impairment begins with the first drink.” More specifically, they report that “significant impairment occurs in the following ways among drivers under .05 alcohol concentration: visual acuity, vigilance, drowsiness, psychomotor skills and information processing.” Knowing that the risk of crashing goes up with just one drink means driving yourself home is never worth the risk.

**Secure a Safe Ride Home in Advance
**It’s always important to have safe transportation in place. In the past, you may have relied on a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to provide you with a way home. Uber and Lyft recently announced significant layoffs (as reported by the Washington Post). What does this mean for consumers who rely on rideshare services? With the demands for rides down, customers may have a more difficult time finding a driver when requesting a ride. Instead of waiting to request an Uber, use the app’s “scheduled rides” feature before heading out to nail down specifics. Their website states this option is available up to 30 days in advance. Lyft has a similar feature that extends up to seven days in advance. Other possibilities include a designated driver or making arrangements for a friend or family member who hasn’t been drinking to drive you home.

Reach for a Non-Alcoholic Drink

If you aren’t able to locate safe transportation, it’s possible to keep your plans. Instead of the cocktail or specialty brew you typically order, go the non-alcoholic route. You’ll still be able to share a laugh and great conversation, and the peace of mind you’ll have knowing you won’t have to worry about who will drive you home is worth it. There will be other opportunities for a beer flight or wine tasting.

We Are Here to Help
Contact our personal injury firm if you or a family member has been the victim of a drunk driving accident in South Carolina. We offer a free consultation and 24-hour answering service. We have five convenient locations, with three South Carolina locations being fully staffed with full-time attorneys and experienced support staff, or we can meet you at your home or hospital, with evening and weekend appointments available. Call John Price Law Firm, LLC at (843) 552-6011.