You’re Not Driving Home: The Best Time To Choose A Designated Driver
We all understand the rule about drinking and driving, but somewhere between the music and good conversation, getting home safely becomes an afterthought. That's exactly when things go wrong.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 32% of traffic fatalities in 2022 involved alcohol. So, waiting until you're tipsy to figure out transportation is backwards. The right moment to pick your designated driver is before you even leave the house.
Why You Should Decide Before The Drinks Start Flowing
Alcohol might lift your mood, but it also quietly changes how your brain works. Even one drink can blur judgment and make risky choices feel reasonable. Waiting until after you’ve started drinking to decide who’s driving is like trying to pick a pilot mid-flight—your ability to make a sound call has already taken off.
The Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine (AAAM) reports that drivers with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or above have a risk of fatal crashes that’s roughly seven times higher than those who haven’t been drinking. That statistic alone should make “we’ll figure it out later” sound like the worst plan possible.
Beyond the risk of death or injury, the legal and financial fallout from impaired driving can last for years. Between fines, court costs, license suspensions, and insurance hikes, one bad decision can easily cost thousands of dollars. And no price compares to the guilt of hurting someone else.
How To Spot A Reliable Designated Driver
After understanding the risks, the next logical step is to choose a designated driver for yourself, but how they handle the night matters just as much. Here’s what makes someone a solid choice behind the wheel:
They plan ahead without being asked:
AdvertisementSomeone who checks the route, parking, and the return plan before the night starts is more likely to stay responsible later. If they treat it casually, that’s your first red flag.
They take care of themselves before going out: A good designated driver eats beforehand, keeps water around, and stays alert throughout the evening. If they’re already tired or haven’t eaten, they won’t be at their best behind the wheel.
They stay steady when the night gets loud: A reliable designated driver doesn’t get swept up in the chaos. They can keep things relaxed and make simple requests—like wearing seatbelts or keeping the noise down—without snapping or causing tension.
They pay attention to the group: You want someone who notices when a friend is unsteady or needs extra time before leaving. A reliable driver doesn’t rush people into the car just to get the night over with.
A little planning goes a long way. When you choose your driver before the night begins—and choose someone who’s steady, alert, and thoughtful—you’re setting everyone up for a safe return. That’s how good nights end well.
