Alcohol And The Holidays: Getting Home Safely

No matter where you look, ‘tis the season! The proverbial halls have been decked for nearly two months, the trees put up, the lights strung, the office party invitations sent . . . and the roadblocks set up, too.

Driving under the influence has been punishable under the Criminal Code and provincial traffic acts for several decades, which means that anyone with an ounce of sense hands over their keys after having a drink. But since many of us aren’t all that reasonable at the best of times, we’re subject to mental mayhem once alcohol hits our frontal lobe. Some people actually start thinking that they drive better when tipsy. If this sort of thing ever crosses your mind (or if you come to the sudden realization that you’re a greeeeat singer), it’s time to stop drinking for the night.

One thing is for sure: Murphy’s law dictates that the only time you’ll come across a roadblock is when you’ve had one too many. As soon as you see it, your car will start veering to the right, then overcompensating to the left—all on its own, obviously. You’ll find that the cars in front of you have slowed down far too abruptly, forcing you to pass on their left before coming to a full stop. Murphy’s law, it’ll get you every time.

You’re laughing, but it’s not funny.

The truth is that the consequences of drinking and driving are no laughing matter. Losing your licence can seriously affect your work and your personal life. But that’s nothing compared to having to live with the fact that your driving has left someone disabled for life—or dead. How would you feel about prison time?

All of this is avoidable. If you’ve drained a bottle or two, consider your options. You can sleep on a friend’s couch, ask a designated driver to take you home, call Operation Red Nose, hail a cab, or even walk. And there’s always the back of a police car. It’s free and they let you play this fun game where you blow into a machine. When invited, you’re best off cooperating with the cops and playing the game.

At the end of the day (or night), it boils down to the same message: Don’t drink and drive. Following this rule will ensure that your holidays are more enjoyable for you and everyone around you.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!