Just because your best friend says they’re okay to drive after a few drinks, it doesn’t mean you have to let them. West Virginia understands that the bonds of friendship run deep at times, but there is no excuse for letting your intoxicated friend drive your car… even if you are smart enough to know you are too drunk to drive. Being a good friend sometimes means you make the tough call to keep your friendship intact while protecting the lives of others on the road.
If you let your friend drink and drive, they run the risk of a DUI. West Virgnia has pretty strict consequences when you (or your friend) drink and drive, including court costs and fines, participation in the Motor Vehicle Alcohol Test and Lock Program and the car breathalyzer or the ignition interlock requirement that comes with it. But, if you knowingly permit your friend to drink and drive, you will likely face similar DUI-like penalties. You didn’t stop your friend from endangering others, your vehicle was used during the escapade and now you have your own day in court.
We all have a level of trust in our friends and those we socialize with, especially when it comes to drinking and driving. Once alcohol enters the picture (and the body), that doesn’t take away the responsibility to ensure the safety of everyone on the road. West Virginia doesn’t want you to drink and drive, and the state is not about to let your intoxicated friend drive your car, either. Having a best friend and a designated driver is a great safety plan when you know you’ll be drinking. Just be sure that your bestie knows the rules about sober driving in West Virginia, and that your friendship is much more important than the risks of drinking and driving.
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