We’re not here to lecture you… especially not on something so obviously uncool. Not to mention highly illegal and supremely dangerous. You should know better than to ever step behind the wheel when you’d be anywhere close to blowing over. If you get caught above the legal limit, you’re looking at suspension, fines, and insurance rates that can rise to extreme heights for up to a decade. And this is the best-case scenario. Worst case, you get involved in an accident and ruin more than just your own life. So, this holiday season, we urge you to be smart, safe, and under control anytime you decide to drive a vehicle. In this day and age, there’s simply no excuse. And to prove it, we’ve listed several effective services that’ll get you (and sometimes your car) home safely without ever having to worry about where the next R.I.D.E. program is waiting.
Keychain Breathalyzer
The first defense. There are several options out there but they generally offer the same service – they let you know just how many shots of rum were actually in that mystery bowl of eggnog. They’re small, easy to use, and cheap. Get one.
Taxis
It might sound obvious, but these guys do serve a purpose beyond cutting you off. If you’ve had one too many, don’t mess around. And with the advent of convenient apps like Hailo and Uber, hailing a cab no longer even requires lifting your arm. Don’t be lazy – or stupid.
Designated Drivers
You need your car. You didn’t mean to have a third round. You thought you were fine. We get that you believe this, but it’s still unacceptable.
If you don’t already know, there are a number of businesses in Toronto dedicated to getting you and your sweet chariot home in one piece. They come to your car and drive you home while you ride shotgun. Another car follows you and takes your driver away to another call when you’re home safe and sound. It’s that simple.
Here’s a list of several of these companies currently operating in the GTA. So now you won’t ever have an excuse to play chicken with the legal limit again. Put ‘em in your phone, tattoo ‘em on your body, or staple ‘em to your face, but whatever you do, don’t ever let you or anyone you know drive drunk. Ever.
Drink & Dial – Downtown, GTA, and More.
GTA Designated Drivers – Drivers have undergone criminal background checks and are professionally trained.
Smart Ride – Fares are equivalent to a cab ‘n a half.
Keys to Us – More GTA. Less Downtown.
Designated Drivers Against Drinking Drivers – Drivers wear a uniform (fancy!)
Cover Image from: Npr.org