It’s Thanksgiving Eve: Use Uber, Lyft, or a Designated Driver

Thanksgiving Eve is one of the biggest party nights of the year, especially around the vibrant Florida Suncoast. Bars and restaurants buzz with activity as college students return home, families reconnect, and friends gather to catch up over drinks. This annual tradition, often called “Drinksgiving,” is a cherished time of camaraderie and celebration. Yet, amidst the laughter and cheer, it’s important to remember the risks that come with this festive occasion.

Thanksgiving Eve also holds a darker distinction: it’s one of the deadliest nights on the road. Across the United States, DUIs and alcohol-related accidents spike dramatically on this night, leaving behind heartbreak and tragedy. In Florida, where the Suncoast region is known for its nightlife and tourist hotspots, the potential for drunk driving incidents is even higher. That’s why it’s essential to plan ahead and prioritize safety by using Uber, Lyft, or a designated driver.

A Night of Celebration, Not Consequences

The reasons for the increased drinking on Thanksgiving Eve are easy to understand. With many schools and workplaces closed for the holiday, people take advantage of the opportunity to relax and let loose. The return of college students adds an extra layer of excitement, as they reconnect with high school friends and relive old memories. For others, it’s a chance to take a breather before the hustle and bustle of cooking, hosting, and family obligations on Thanksgiving Day.

But the celebratory atmosphere can easily turn dangerous. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drunk-driving fatalities account for nearly 30% of all traffic deaths in the United States during the holiday season. On Thanksgiving Eve specifically, the combination of alcohol, late-night partying, and crowded roads creates a perfect storm for accidents.

The Suncoast’s Bustling Social Scene

In cities like Sarasota, Bradenton, and St. Petersburg, Thanksgiving Eve is a night to enjoy local bars, live music venues, and waterfront restaurants. Popular spots like downtown St. Pete’s nightlife district or Bradenton’s Old Main Street are magnets for festive crowds. While it’s wonderful to see these communities thrive, the increased traffic volume and impaired drivers make the roads more hazardous for everyone.

Drinking and driving doesn’t just put your life at risk—it endangers your passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians. A single poor decision can lead to a lifetime of regret. This year, commit to being part of the solution by arranging a safe ride home before heading out.

Your Options for a Safe Ride

Thanks to modern technology, avoiding drunk driving has never been easier. Ridesharing apps like Uber and Lyft are widely available across the Suncoast, offering convenient, affordable, and reliable transportation. With just a few taps on your phone, you can ensure you and your friends get home safely.

If ride sharing isn’t your preference, consider designating a sober driver before the night begins. Choose someone you trust to remain alcohol-free and take responsibility for getting everyone home. Many bars and restaurants also participate in programs that provide free or discounted rides on holidays—be sure to check local options in advance.

Think Beyond the Party

The consequences of drunk driving extend far beyond a DUI charge or an accident. A conviction can result in hefty fines, loss of your driver’s license, skyrocketing insurance premiums, and even jail time. Worse still, it can cause irreparable harm to others and tear families apart.

On Thanksgiving Eve, as you raise a glass to toast friendship, family, and the spirit of the season, remember what’s truly important. The holidays are about gratitude, togetherness, and creating memories that will last a lifetime—not moments of recklessness that you can never take back.

Be the Change

This Thanksgiving Eve let’s set an example for our communities. Encourage your friends and family to plan ahead, and don’t hesitate to intervene if someone you know is about to get behind the wheel after drinking. Your actions could save a life.

The Florida Suncoast is a beautiful place to celebrate, but it’s up to all of us to keep it safe. So, enjoy the festivities, share laughter and stories, and make sure everyone gets home in one piece. Whether you use Uber, Lyft, or a designated driver, make the smart choice—and give yourself and others another reason to be thankful this holiday season.

Photo from Deposit Photos