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Being a designated driver doesn’t have to be a drag

Written by Jay M. Kelley III in Accident & Injury on January 24, 2018

The designated driver is an underappreciated role. But designated drivers serve an important purpose: To ensure that friends arrive home safely after a night of drinking.

Drinking and driving can have devastating consequences. The possibility of getting a DUI/OVI, getting into an accident or getting seriously injured should be enough to keep anyone from drunk driving.

But according to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention, 3,637 people in Ohio were killed in drunk driving-related crashes in Ohio between 2003 and 2012.

Choosing a designated driver is a wise choice for any individual or group of friends who are going out drinking. Here are some tips to keep you and your group safe:

  • Respect your DD: For those who will be drinking, it is important to treat your designated driver well. Besides paying for gas and parking, offer to buy dinner and (non-alcoholic) drinks. And whatever you do, don’t pressure your designated driver into drinking.
  • Don’t drink: It sounds easy, but it can be tempting to order a drink or two when all of your friends are indulging. But having a drink or two can throw all of your plans off and put you and your friends at risk.
  • When in doubt, cab it home: Even with the best of intentions, some designated drivers end up drinking during a night out. If a DD decides to drink, it is best for all to take a cab home. Ridesharing apps like Uber and Lyft make it easy and convenient for this to happen.

These tips can help you and your friends avoid the risks associated with driving under the influence of alcohol. Have fun and stay safe!

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Jay M. Kelly III

Jay M. Kelly III - Managing Partner

Meet Jay M. Kelley III, a top medical malpractice attorney in Ohio with over 25 years of experience and $200 million in verdicts and settlements. He leads Elk + Elk’s litigation strategy in state and federal courts and has a unique background as a former felony prosecutor and hospital defense lawyer. Jay specializes in complex cases, including birth injuries and wrongful death, and is recognized by Best Lawyers and ranked among the Super Lawyers Top 10 in Ohio.

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