Most people in Oregon have already started to plan their New Year’s Eve celebrations. For those who plan to celebrate with alcohol or other substances, it’s important to have a safe and responsible plan for getting home.

While traditional options like driving may be tempting, there are several alternative ways to get home on New Year’s Eve in Oregon that can help ensure a safe and sober journey.

One option is to use the tried and true method of calling a taxi cab. Make sure you have the phone number for the taxi in your phone already or have the card of a local cab driver or company with you.

You can also use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. These companies offer convenient and reliable transportation, and many people find them to be a safe and affordable alternative to driving under the influence. It’s important to remember, however, that ride-sharing prices may be higher on New Year’s Eve due to increased demand.

It is also important to ensure you have the app downloaded on your phone, your payment information already in the app, and that you have tested it to make sure it works. You will not want to be troubleshooting your rideshare app when you’re cold outside trying to get a ride!

Another option is to use public transportation. Many cities in Oregon have comprehensive public transportation systems that can be a convenient and affordable way to get home. For example, TriMet in Portland offers bus, light rail, and streetcar service, as well as a late-night bus service called the “Night Owl” that operates on major holidays and free rides on New Year’s Eve starting at 8pm. Other cities in Oregon, such as Salem and Eugene, also have public transportation options that can be used on New Year’s Eve.

If public transportation is not an option, consider organizing a designated driver or finding a sober friend to drive you home. It’s important to have a plan in place before the celebrations begin and to always prioritize safety when making decisions about how to get home.

Finally, if you’re unable to find a safe way home, consider staying where you are. There are many hotels and motels in Oregon which offer overnight accommodations, or if you are at a party, ensure you have a safe space to stay until you are able to get home safely.

Please don’t stay in a stranger’s home if you do not feel 100% safe. Contact someone you know, a taxi, or a ride share to make sure you get home safely, and always make sure someone knows where you are.

There are several alternative ways to get home on New Year’s Eve in Oregon, including using ride-sharing services, public transportation, or finding a sober driver. It’s important to make a plan before the celebrations begin and to prioritize safety when making decisions about how to get home. Have a safe and sober plan in place to ensure a happy and safe New Year’s Eve and if you do end up in legal trouble, call an attorney to know your rights and get legal advice.