Celebrate Game Day Safely

On game day, thank your designated driver friends by offering them creative “mocktails” – non-alcoholic drinks that often feature fresh juices and garnishes.

Whether you’re one of the many who choose to abstain from alcohol in what’s known as Dry January or you or your friends are designated drivers, don’t stop at a boring glass of soda water with a tiny lemon wedge or an old, flat can of cola found in the back of the fridge.

Late January is also time for friends to gather to prepare for the big game. When setting out the wings, chips and salsa, and snacks, don’t forget about non-alcoholic drink options for your designated drivers. Non-alcoholic punches, lemonades and teas offer everyone a choice and will make your sober drivers’ taste buds happy!

Experiment with fresh fruits, juices and sprigs of herbs. Search online for “mocktails” and you’ll find hundreds of recipes for colorful, creative non-alcoholic drinks that will be a hit with anyone at your next party. We found a few to share with you; see NHTSA's Facebook page.

As always, if you or your friends have been drinking, don’t get behind the wheel:

• Remember, it is never okay to drive impaired by alcohol or drugs. Designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride share service to get home safely. Before you go out, download NHTSA’s free SaferRide mobile app, available on Google Play for Android devices, and Apple’s iTunes Store for iOS devices. It lets you share your location so a friend can pick you up.
• If a friend or family member is impaired by alcohol or drugs and planning to drive, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get home safely. Don’t worry about offending someone—they’ll thank you later.
• Be alert and distraction-free, and if you see an impaired driver, call 911 as soon as it is safe to do so.
• Buckle up. Wearing your seat belt is your best defense against an impaired driver.

Start 2019 off safely: always drive sober or designate a sober ride.