210SA - San Antonio's weekly entertainment, culture and events publication - Fiesta is a great reason to party, but no excuse to drink and drive

Fiesta is a great reason to party, but no excuse to drink and drive

Drunk-driving stats

We've said it before, but it's worth repeating:

Of the 3,504 traffic fatalities in Texas in 2005, 45 percent were alcohol-related.

There are about 1.4 million alcohol or narcotic-related arrests in the U.S. each year.

About three in 10 people will be involved in an alcohol-related crash.

On average, the human body metabolizes one drink per hour.

What's one drink? Beer = 12 ounces. Wine = 5 ounces. Distilled spirits (72-proof) = 1.5 ounces.

It's a myth: Coffee, cold showers and exercise will not sober you up. Only time will do the trick.

Source: Mothers Against Drunk Driving

Yeah, it's Fiesta, but that's no excuse for driving drunk. Especially when there are other options for people who find themselves intoxicated without any way of getting home. Plan ahead so you can enjoy Fiesta without putting yourself — or anyone else on the streets — in danger.

Pick a designated driver before you start drinking. Or call a sober friend or family member to pick you up.

If you're drinking at someone's house, ask to stay the night.

After the Fiesta Flambeau Parade on April 26, VIA is extending its late-night service from downtown; for the Texas Cavaliers River Parade on Monday, April 21, and Battle of Flowers Parade on April 25, VIA is offering 10:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. Downtown Lineup service. The fare is $1 for adults.

VIA's Starlight Service shuttles people inside Loop 410 and the Medical Center area from 1 to 4 a.m. The fare is $5.50.

Jessica Belasco | 210SA contributor

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