Alcohol has played a significant role in society for what seems like forever. Of course, back before automobiles were invented, being drunk didn't equate to an increased risk of harming others like it does today.

Often, drinking responsibly means more than ensuring that you don't drink and drive: it means making sure that your friends, family, and even friends of friends and co-workers don't drink and drive either.

When Intoxicated People Want to Drive

It's happened to almost every one of us; we've been drinking at a restaurant, a bar, or friend's house and we realize we've had too much to drink.

We have a plan B, and are about to whip out our cellphone and call a cab or ridesharing company, such as Uber. But, the impaired person stumbling next to us is pulling out their keys, confident that they're "fit to drive." You know they've had way too many drinks, and the fun evening just turned incredibly awkward.

We've all been there, and depending on how well you know the person, prying the keys from their hand may sound easier than it is. Regardless if they're a happy drunk, it's important not to let them drive home.

Here are a few options:

• Try to be nice and calmly suggest that it would be safer to call a cab, or find a sober driver to take them home.
• Always make light of the situation.
• If you don't know the person, try to talk to their friends into taking their keys.
• If it's a close friend or family member, suggest walking, getting a ride or calling a cab and insist on not riding with them.
• If necessary, find their keys and take them away when they're preoccupied. They'll probably think they misplaced them.

It's best to avoid confrontation, embarrassing the person, or getting angry with them, especially if you're dealing with a male. Why? Because, such an approach can cause the situation to escalate.

If you were arrested for DUI, contact a DUI attorney for an aggressive defense!