Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs presents a danger to the driver and the public. Preventing someone from getting behind the wheel requires a strategy that prioritizes safety and employs calm, reasoned action. Intervention is necessary because impairment affects judgment, reaction time, and coordination, significantly raising the risk of a motor vehicle crash.
De-escalation and Direct Intervention
Approach the individual privately and calmly to begin the intervention, as confronting them in front of an audience can increase hostility or defensiveness. Maintaining a composed demeanor is important because an intoxicated person often mirrors the emotional state of the person they are interacting with. The goal of this initial conversation is to focus on genuine concern for their well-being, rather than making accusations or delivering moral judgment.
Use non-confrontational language, framing the conversation with “I” statements, such as, “I am worried about you getting home safely tonight.” Since alcohol consumption reduces the ability to process complex information, be firm, clear, and persistent, while avoiding arguments or condescending tones that could escalate the situation. If the person begins to resist, enlist the help of other sober friends or associates, as multiple people can make it more difficult for the individual to dismiss the request.
The most direct and effective intervention is to physically separate the person from their car keys or the vehicle itself. Ask for the keys directly, suggesting you will hold them for safekeeping or drive them home. If the person is highly resistant, temporarily hiding the keys, or if safe to do so, disabling the vehicle by removing a coil wire or a fuse, can prevent them from leaving. Prior planning, like having a designated “key-keeper” before a gathering begins, can circumvent this confrontation entirely.
Securing Safe Alternative Transportation
Once the person has been successfully prevented from driving, the next step involves immediately securing a safe pathway home or to a temporary shelter. If a pre-arranged designated driver is available and has not consumed alcohol, this is the simplest solution. Otherwise, offer to arrange and pay for a professional ride-sharing service or a taxi, removing any financial barrier that might tempt the person to drive.
Booking the ride immediately on their behalf and confirming the destination and payment ensures the process is seamless, as the impaired person may struggle with the logistics. If the distance or time of night makes professional services impractical, offer to drive them home yourself if you are sober and the situation is safe. A less immediate, but equally safe option is to offer them a safe place to sleep for the night, such as a couch or a spare room.
Providing a place to stay allows the person to sober up and enables them to retrieve their vehicle when fully rested. Offering food and water can also help mitigate the effects of intoxication, making them more amenable to staying put until the following day. The focus must remain on providing a clear, simple, and immediate alternative to driving, reinforcing that their safety is the priority.
Actions When Intervention Fails or They Leave
If the individual refuses all attempts at intervention and insists on driving, prioritize personal safety and avoid physical struggle. If the person becomes aggressive or violent, retreat to a safe distance and do not engage in a physical confrontation. Allowing the person to leave the immediate vicinity is safer than risking injury in a struggle, especially when their judgment is severely impaired.
The next necessary action is to contact law enforcement immediately by calling 911, as this situation constitutes an active public safety emergency. When speaking with the dispatcher, provide precise details about the vehicle, including the make, model, color, and, if possible, the license plate number. Relay the direction of travel and the location where they were last seen to help officers quickly intercept the driver.
Following the event, it is helpful to follow up with the person when they are sober. Address the behavior in a non-accusatory manner, focusing on the potential consequences and reiterating your concern for their safety and the safety of others. This discussion can reinforce the seriousness of the situation and may encourage them to make better plans for transportation in the future.