Dare I Call a Cab if Dad Is Drinking?

Being a 17-year-old in today’s society, I find that my opinions are overlooked and often disregarded when challenged by an adult. One such issue that has occupied my mind relates to drinking and driving.

Last month, The Times reported that many children who are involved in automobile accidents are killed because their parents had recently consumed alcohol.

Heavy emphasis is placed on teenagers not drinking and driving, but sometimes society forgets that parents consume as much or even more alcohol than teenagers. It is normal for adults to drink wine during dinner. As concerned as I am for my safety, what am I suppose to do? Should I tell my parents that I don’t feel comfortable driving with them and then phone a friend or a cab to pick me up?

Such an action would cause quite a controversy, after which I would be forced to climb in the back seat and buckle up.

If our nation truly does care for its youth, we need to become aware of this problem and find ways to fix it. Children learn from their parents and if they see their role models drink and drive, nothing will stop them from doing the same.