Local businesses and Indiana State Police are encouraging people to stay from behind the wheel after drinking.
According to the Indiana State Police, there were 28 DUI arrests and four fatalities between New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day last year.
Sgt. Matt Ames says, people should have a plan before going out, like having a designated driver.
“What we’re looking for is voluntary compliance from people just to be able to drive safely out here so that everyone can be safe,” said Ames.
Ames also recommends taking advantage of car services like the free cab ride service sponsored by Fleschner Law Firm.
Fleschner Law Firm has been offering a free cab ride service for the past nine years, as a part of their “Community First” program.
According to Attorney Caleb Fleschner, they have provided 40-50 rides so far this holiday season.
“We will make sure that someone gets from the bar or wherever they’re drinking home. We won’t take them from bar to bar, but if they need a cab ride home, we’ll make sure they get sent home safe and sound,” said Fleschner.
Local bars like Sonka’s Irish Pub also take a safety first approach by being vigilant to ensure customer safety.
Larry Anderson, Sonka’s Irish Pub manager says the employees are trained to look for signs of intoxication.
“We watch how they’re handling themselves, their motor skills, that kind of thing. We look for blurred or slurred words…When they order, if its not quite sounding right, we just tell them we don’t feel comfortable serving you,” said Anderson.
The free cab service is available to those that live within and outside of Terre Haute city limits.
