DEAR HARRIETTE: One of my good guy friends has been drinking and driving pretty often. Everyone knows he does it, and no one ever does anything about it. Whenever I catch him doing it, I make him leave his car wherever he is and come with me. Recently, I caught him, and he wouldn’t get out of his car. Instead, he drove away with his friends in the car. He doesn’t understand how much trouble he can get into if he is caught, or how much danger he is putting the people around him in. He gets annoyed with me every time I yell at him for it. I need to do something about it -- what? -- Drunk Driver, Portland, Oregon
DEAR DRUNK DRIVER: When your friend is sober, sit down with him and describe how erratic and dangerous he becomes when he’s drunk and decides, belligerently, to get behind the wheel. Express in strong, clear language that you are worried for his life and for the lives of others around him when he drives in that condition. If he tries to brush it off or pick a verbal fight, do not fall into his trap. Point out that he should have a good idea when he plans to go to a party, bar or other setting where he is likely to drink. Suggest that he leave his car at home or ask someone to be the designated driver for the evening.
Point out that in most cities, Uber or Lyft or other similar ride services are available to pick people up. Many are using these in lieu of driving themselves when they think the choice is safer. Encourage your friend to plan in advance for those moments when leaving his car is the best choice.
(Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)