If your New Year's Eve plans will take you around the metro area, stay safe and leave the driving to someone else.
Zero Fare for New Year's Eve with RTD
For the 15th year, the Regional Transportation District (RTD) is offering free rides on all RTD services — bus, MetroRide, MallRide, light rail, and commuter rail — from 7:00 PM on December 31, 2023, through 7:00 AM on January 1, 2024.
Since the Free Rides program began in 1987, more than 8 million people in 28 communities have benefited from safe rides. RTD customers can plan trips and find route and schedule information at www.rtd-denver.com.
Remember: There will be fireworks shows on the 16th Street Mall at 9:00 PM and midnight on New Year's Eve that will affect RTD operations.
Free Cab Ride Program from The Wilhite Law Firm
Since 2006, The Wilhite Law Firm (formerly the Sawaya La Firm) has offered a Free Cab Ride Program on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day to keep Colorado roads and citizens safe from accidents caused by drunk driving.
Call a cab or rideshare such as Uber or Lyft to get a ride home, pay the driver, and send the bill along with a copy of your photo ID to The Sawaya Law Firm for reimbursement of up to $35.
Anyone age 21 or older with a valid ID may participate in the program. The reimbursement offer is valid for a one-way ride to your home, and the maximum reimbursement is $35.
If You're the Party Host
If you plan to host a party this weekend, make sure your guests stay safe by following the tips below:
- Collect your guests' car keys upon arrival. Or, encourage them to designate a sober driver or plan to use a ride-sharing service, taxi, or public transportation.
- Call a friend or family member for a guest if they have been drinking, or offer a place to stay if a sober ride home is unavailable.
- Stop serving alcohol at least two hours before the party ends, and provide plenty of food and non-alcoholic drink options.
- Be persistent if a guest is intoxicated and planning to drive home. Explain that you care about their safety and cannot let them get behind the wheel.
- Remember, as a host, you could be held liable if a guest you serve alcohol to gets in a crash.
