After succeeding in other cities around the world, the idea of a designated driving service has finally come to the area. Opened in January, Boston's Designated Driver Inc offers patrons a safe ride home in the comfort of their own vehicle. Instead of risking a DUI, leaving the car behind to be retrieved in the morning, or relying on expensive two way taxis, Boston's DD offers another alternative. Call them when you need a ride and they'll send a pair of drivers to pick up you and your car.
The idea applies to so many different groups and situations; the fact that it took so long to reach the area is astounding. From parents trying to protect their college age kids, to couples out for the weekend, hard-partying working folks, and everyone in between, Boston's DD can provide rides from anywhere you've been drinking. The possibility of bringing them in for events could be huge for hosts trying to help guests get home safe. Bar owners across the city can appreciate the reduction in liability they offer - no one can say they didn't do everything in their power to keep people from getting too drunk and from driving home safely after a drink or two. And customers can appreciate it. Waking up with your memory a bit fuzzy but the car safely in the driveway is a great feeling.
They are not a taxi - instead of transporting people in company cars, they rely on your vehicle and insurance to get you home. But eliminating the risk of driving while impaired is well worth the rates they charge - a ride up to 5 miles can be as low as $24, for customers taking advantage of discounts they offer. WIth the added convenience of your car in the driveway when you wake up, it's a great concept.
One issue that comes up is the idea that it promotes excessive drinking - far from it. The company offers another alternative to people making the responsible decision at the end of the night, but requests that people be coherent and alert when they're picked up. Be responsible. Having customers who are belligerently intoxicated is not what they're after - they want to deliver a safe ride home with no DUI, not look after customers who drank too much. But they are extra willing to help, when those situations do arise - no one wants you to get into an accident or earn a DUI, least of all a company devoted to safety.
Started by 2 Bentley University students just this month, Boston's DD is still small but growing every day. Only open for a few weeks, they've already partnered with four local bars - Tommy Doyle's in Harvard and Kendall, Bella Luna in Jamaica Plain, and The Last Shot in Stoughton. Each partner shows support for the idea by putting up posters in restrooms and entryways, linking websites with the DD service, and promoting a discount for their customers.BDD is open six nights a week for the time being, from 10 to 2, and drivers are available 24/7 with some advance notice.
Contact bostonsdd@gmail.com or call 617.652.0233, for a ride or with any questions. The website is very professional and all drivers are friendly and experienced. The founders are also very big on getting the name and idea out there - interviews can easily be arranged.
