DESIGNATE DRIVER Meaning and
Definition
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A designated driver refers to an individual who has been chosen or assigned to abstain from consuming alcohol or any impairing substances in order to safely transport others who are not fit to drive. Typically, this role is adopted within a group of friends, colleagues, or family members when planning a social gathering or event involving the consumption of alcoholic beverages.
The main purpose of a designated driver is to ensure the safety and well-being of the group by responsibly remaining sober while others indulge in drinking. By taking on this responsibility, the designated driver volunteers to assume the role of the primary driver for the night, carrying the responsibility of transporting others to their destinations safely.
In many cases, the designated driver is selected in advance, allowing them to commit to their role and fully accept the responsibility before the gathering or event takes place. Often, the chosen designated driver refrains from consuming any alcoholic substances during the entire duration of the designated period of time, from the start of the event until all party members have been safely transported home.
Designated drivers play a crucial role in preventing impaired driving incidents, ensuring the safety of both themselves and others on the road. They fulfill a vital function by promoting responsible drinking habits and reducing the risk of accidents, injuries, or even fatalities resulting from driving under the influence.
Etymology of DESIGNATE DRIVER
The term "designated driver" originated in the United States in the late 20th century as a response to the issue of drunk driving. The word "designate" comes from the Latin word "designare", which means "to mark out or appoint". In this context, "designate" refers to someone who is assigned the responsibility of driving others safely while abstaining from alcohol consumption. The phrase "designated driver" first appeared in a public service campaign, called the "Harvard Alcohol Project", launched in 1988 by the Harvard School of Public Health in cooperation with the automotive industry. The goal was to promote the concept of a non-drinking designated driver, actively discouraging drunk driving and providing alternative transportation for friends or colleagues who had consumed alcohol. The practice of having a designated driver gained popularity and spread globally as a means to reduce alcohol-related traffic accidents and promote responsible drinking.
