GREENVILLE, SC (FOX Carolina) -
With holiday party season in full swing, Upstate drivers are reminded to
dish out cash for a cab or car service instead of being charged with driving under the
influence.
Randy Smith, who's known as "BO," said the holiday season is one of his busiest. He's a driver for Bowers Signature Services and considers himself somewhat of an guardian angel for customers who've had one drink too many.
"We will not only get you home safely, but we'll get your car home," said Bowers Signature Services owner Marilyn Bowers.
Bowers said that could run you anywhere from $50 to $75. Upstate attorney Grant Varner said it's worth it considering you could get slapped with a DUI.
Varner said the severity of a DUI is costly, starting with attorney fees anywhere from $6,000 to $8,000, court cost and fines up to $2,500, SR-22 insurance for three years up to $200 a month, ADSAP, which is a program you go through in South Carolina for $500, treatment up to $2,000 and you could see a few extra fees.
"It's substantially cheaper to spend $40 on a cab ride home," said Varner.
It's a message one Upstate bar owner preaches all the time.
"We want them to come out and have a good time, but most important thing is they get home safe," said Zone Sports Grille owner James Wagner.
It's a safe ride Yellow Cab driver Robert Thomas of Greenville wants for everyone this holiday season.
"I actually found myself helping people do things that I normally wouldn't help them do simply because the satisfaction I have gotten from this job," said Thomas.
Copyright 2012 FOX Carolina (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved.
Beer is served at an Upstate bar. (File/FOX Carolina)
