In 2016, over 10,000 people were killed from incidents related to drinking and driving, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
We at The Pacer would like to remind you that you always have other options rather than driving while under the influence.
Friends are nearly always willing to come get you if they know what your alternative option is, and many groups even specify a designated driver for the evening if they are hosting an event.
The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) also reminds drivers regularly through signs and other media that buzzed driving is drunken driving, and it only takes a blood alcohol content level of 0.08 percent to classify as drunk.
In Tennessee, when you receive your license you are automatically agreeing that if you are pulled over for suspected drunken driving, you give your consent to be tested. Should a driver refuse to submit to a test, that driver would automatically lose his or her license.
Experts at TDOT and the CDC recommend that if you know you will be drinking, before you ever take your first sip, give your keys to a designated driver who will not be drinking.
If you cannot find a designated driver out of your group of friends, you should consider taking public transportation if that is an option, or calling an Uber or Lyft.
In Martin, we know that public transportation is non-existent, and we have never found Uber drivers in the area; however, we do know there is at least one Lyft driver in Martin.
Though many fraternities have “sober brother” programs, if, for some reason, you find yourself without a ride, you should never get behind the wheel while intoxicated. If you drive for a ride-share program or know someone who does, please share that information with your friends who may be in need of rides.
We also encourage you to comment about that information on the online version of this story at www.thepacer.net so others also can learn how to get help.
We at The Pacer have friends in all realms and walks of life on campus, so the last thing we want is to read or hear that anyone at UTM has been injured or killed because of a silly mistake. We have all said on multiple occasions that if any of you need one of us, just call. We will always come get you.
Again, please don’t drink and drive. You are valued on this campus and nobody will judge you if you need a ride.
