by Melissa Moore

Created on: March 18, 2008   Last Updated: July 17, 2011

A large majority of individuals enjoy an alcoholic beverage or two when engaging in socializing or relaxing. Society has moved beyond the prohibition era to welcome in an age of responsible alcohol consumption.

Responsible is the key word here. One may not object to consuming alcoholic beverages at one's leisure, however, when an individual gets behind the wheel of a car, they are endangering the lives of others. It seems common sense not to drink and then drive, but more automobile accidents are caused by drunk drivers than ever before. To keep everyone safe, individuals should attempt to adhere to some common sense advice before driving.

1. KNOW YOUR LIMITS:   I am not advocating driving while not completely inebriated, but you should know how much is too much. Know when you have had one too many and stay off of the road.

2. DESIGNATE A DRIVER:  When drinking with a group of friends, associates, or people you associate with, know who is not drinking, and make sure that person does not drink. It makes no sense to designate a driver who is also drinking.

3. IF YOU KNOW YOU WILL BE DRINKING, DON'T DRIVE YOUR CAR:  It's great to take the back seat once in a while, and if you're drinking, the ride home may seem like an adventure.

4. GIVE UP YOUR KEYS:  Sometimes you feel you won't be drinking at all that night, and lo and behold, you find yourself intoxicated. Do the right thing-give your keys to someone who isn't drunk so you won't fool yourself into thinking you aren't that drunk.

5. STAY HOME AND DRINK : This often works out best. Invite a few people, have plenty of space for those to crash and pass out, and drink till your heart is content. You won't pay a cover fee or have to buy individual drinks, you know your bathroom is clean, and you can go upstairs if you feel woozy. And your guests might appreciate a change of atmosphere. A win win for all.

6. IF SOMEONE INFORMS YOU THAT YOU'RE DRUNK, YOU PROBABLY ARE:  So many times we all have heard, "Man you're drunk," and the response, "No I'm just a little tipsy." Chances are if someone else, who is probably drunk, informs you that you're drunk, you probably are. Listen to them, and don't drive.

7. All by yourself? CALL A CAB:  It's so easy, and the drivers can be fun to talk to. Just about every town has some type of cab company, and if your town doesn't than you could probably walk home. You may want to write down your address in case the driver cannot understand your drunken gibberish.

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