Changing the narrative: How the US is tackling drunk driving with smarter solutions
Drunk and impaired driving isn’t a new problem. Everyone knows the risks, the laws, and the statistics. But if awareness hasn’t solved this deadly social problem yet, what will? The full solution likely includes building systems that prevent it entirely.
This isn’t about PSAs, finger-wagging, or telling people not to drink. We want to highlight real, easy and affordable measures around California, in college towns and overall successful examples around the US.
Smart ideas that keep drinkers away from the steering wheel
Salt Lake City TRAX Late-Night | Free for students and faculty. Up to $2.50 per ride
Late trains are in operation during big events (varies by event). These are dependable and avoids Uber roulette. View schedule and find more information about specific upcoming events here.
Austin, TX ‘Sober Rides’ (Through Lyft promo) | Up to $10 off normal rates
These use simple promo codes (soberRide, THANK25 and more) and are available during drinking holidays. This lowers the barrier to make a smart choice. Check out what’s available during your next holiday party and get 50% off your first ride here!
Beer City Runner, Grand Rapids, MI | $8 unlimited rides per day
This is a shuttle service looping between breweries Friday and Saturday nights. No need for a car, just hop on.
Private Wine Driver, San Luis Obispo, CA | $30 per hour
Hire a private driver by the hour! S/he drives your car, so you can be safe and legal while enjoying the vineyards of San Luis Obispo County.
CyRide, Ames, IA (Iowa State University) | Free for students, $1 for the public
This is a late-night “drunk bus” service = no DUI fatalities or serious injuries.
SLO Safe Ride | Full van/bus/limousine | Quoted case-by-case
A 24/7 premium charter service on the California Central Coast. It uses passenger vans, buses, and limousines to accommodate any size of event, as well as doing distillery & brewery tours and other events. See more under “For any occasions” on the home page.
Bill’s Bus, Santa Barbara | Modest cover fee ($5- $10), keeps students off the roads.
Simple, late-night safe rides between Isla Vista and downtown SB.
La Crosse, WI Safe Ride | Free Thursday–Saturday nights
This service covers campus and downtown nightlife zones and is free = maximum safety.
Beer Train Trolley, San Diego | $126 for guided beer tour, 5.5 hours
A higher price for sure but it’s a rolling tour with beer tastings included, and zero driving worries.
PedalPub – US and Canada | ≈$40–$60 per person (varies per state)
Group bike tours through breweries and wineries (a designated driver is included – all participants can provide pedal power!). You’re paying for more than transit — you’re buying the party and safety in one.
Napa Valley via Vine Transit | $1.60–$3.50 per ride
Many wineries encourage guests to use public transit. Napa has that option! This is affordable, responsible, and requires no extra planning. Check schedules and routes beforehand here.
Final Word: What Actually Works
- Cheap public transit operating during nightlife hours is basic and effective!
- Promo codes sponsored by bars and clubs in college towns, or Lyft/Uber and other transit alternatives help the affordability of these options for the younger crowd and college students.
- Shared rides and shuttles are practical, affordable (especially as a crowd) and reliable options. Skip the Uber roulette or last minute surge prices!
- Premium, all-in-one tours are a bit pricey upfront, but you’re paying for safety, fun, and convenience bundled together. Suitable for groups and when complete planning is required.
If you have tried reliable options to avoid drinking and driving, share them with friends, family and coworkers. Let’s make the options obvious, available, and worth it. That’s a system that works for everyone!
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