Being a Designated Driver...

is a VERY important role. Though an important role it's not an easy one. I find that when being a designated driver (usually am) it not only takes a load of patience but one also needs to expect the unexpected. So, I've put together a list of rules and expectations necessary when being "DD".

PATIENCE IS KEY

- Though driving drunk is dangerous (never drive drunk) following directions from a back-seat drunk driver while they're swaying and slurring is even more dangerous. Therefore, a DD MUST have a good sense of direction (always know where the nearest fast-food joint is because drunk people love to eat). Be aware of your surroundings and know where you're going.

- BE PREPARED to pull over. Always be prepared to pull over. If your friend says they're "feeling sick" then pull the eff over! Then, be prepared to go outside, open the door and hold your friend's hair back (if they have hair) and pat their back while they're spewing. If you don't act quickly then be prepared to clean up after them (if you're nice) OR you can wait til the next morning (by then the vomit will be crusted dry) and have your hung-over friend clean it. Your choice.

- Be prepared to repeat yourself numerous times. Sober conversation is completely different from drunk conversation. A drunk friend has NO MEMORY and probably won't remember what you've said, even if you've said it about 5 times already. Oh, and speak LOUDLY. Speaking loud and slow helps in certain occasions.

- If you're lucky enough to be the DD with the friend who passes out in the car be prepared to park once you've reached your desired destination. This will require absolutely no work or in some cases getting out and assisting your friend to their door step-- sometimes their room. It depends how intoxicated your friend is at the time.

That's all I can think of for now. PATIENCE IS KEY. I put this together because I find that when certain friends are DD and experience being sober around drunk friends they never want to do it again. Like I said, it's not an easy role! lol. It might be that I have a high level of patience or that I'm just immune to being assigned the position as DD-- nevertheless, WE ALL LOVE OUR FRIENDS and being the designated driver is just something that goes along with being a good friend. :)