Cutting down on drinking and driving in Baton Rouge

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By Rachael Lundy

It is no secret that people living in Louisiana know how to have a good time. Consuming alcoholic beverages is a major social pastime for those who live in this Cajun state, especially for those who are living the college life.

Being the home to Mardi Gras balls, spicy crawfish boils and the infamous LSU football games – all of which include a great deal of drinking enjoyment, Louisiana’s culture certainly promotes fun, drunken times.

Drinking alcoholic beverages has been glamorized by some while being forbidden from many who have not yet reached the legal age to drink, but, as with many things, the forbidden fruit can be the most appealing thing to eat.

Those under the age of 21 may not legally be able to drink, but are still able to access these beverages regardless. Because underage drinking is illegal, it only makes it that much more enticing to do, especially for those who are now living independently for the first time, as many at LSU are now doing.

Unfortunately, many who decide to enjoy this common pastime do not make plans to do so safely.

According to Casey Rayborn Hicks, the public information officer for the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s office, “41 adults and 1 juvenile have been arrested [in the unincorporated areas that fall under the jurisdiction of the sheriff’s office] for DWI’s from January 1, 2008 – April 30, 2008.”

The sheriff’s office has implemented policies in which to deter this unwanted driving behavior.

“We have Vehicle Safety Check Points, which look for any violation, including DWI’s, in south Baton Rouge and in north Baton Rouge.

The National Youth Rights Association, proponents of lowering the drinking age, “is a youth-led national non-profit organization dedicated to fighting for the civil rights and liberties of young people,” according to its Web site. “Our mission centers on challenging age discrimination against young people, both in law and in attitudes.”

These proponents argue that lowering the drinking age will diminish drinking and driving because it takes the appeal out of rebelling and allows for younger consumers to legally educate themselves. In response, they argue, youth are enabled to drink responsibly.

Others disagree with this kind of thinking.

“The mission of Mothers Against Drunk Driving is to stop drunk driving, support the victims of this violent crime, and prevent underage drinking,” states the Mothers Against Drunk Driving Web site.

They propose that raising the minimum drinking age has saved the lives of many.

“Since states began setting the legal drinking age to 21, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates nearly 25,000 lives have been saved,” states www.madd.org.

Regardless of one’s age, those living in Baton Rouge really have no excuse to drink and drive. Zingo Designated Drivers is located on Perkins Road next to the Happy Note, and is there to assist those who have been drinking, but do not want to leave their cars behind. Their motto is “We drive you and your car home safely!” Zingo Designated Drivers charges $20 for pickup and $2 per mile, while offering a 25 percent discount for those attending LSU. It even offers gift cards are for those parents who wish to buy their college-aged child a much needed gift. For more information about Zingo drivers, visit http://www.zingobr.com.

There are many reasons to celebrate in Louisiana, but there are many more to do so responsibly and there are options available in order to do so.

Originally Published: Issue 694 - July 23, 2008

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