The (nonalcoholic) drinks are on the house for drivers

By Mike Leidemann
Advertiser Transportation Writer

Designated drivers now drink free.

More than 30 nightclubs, bars and restaurants in Honolulu will provide complimentary soft drinks to customers who choose to be designated drivers, under a new program announced yesterday by the state.

The new designated driver campaign — dubbed "D2" — is aimed at preventing alcohol-related accidents for adults, officials said.

Last year, more than half of the 133 traffic deaths across Hawai'i involved alcohol, officials said.

"This program is another tool to help people act responsibly and to cut down on the those horrible images of people dying in tragic accidents," Lt. Gov. Duke Aiona said.

The new program is a cooperative effort of the state, several O'ahu radio stations and popular nighttime establishments, Aiona said.

In addition to providing free soft drinks, some of the establishments have promised to reward designated drivers with free admission into nightclubs, free valet parking, unlimited nonalcoholic drinks, discounts and prize giveaways.

The local radio stations said they would promote the program on-air through the summer.

Reach Mike Leidemann at 525-5460 or mleidemann@honoluluadvertiser.com