What Should You Do If a Customer Tries to Drive After Being Served?

The Dilemma: A Customer Who’s Had One Too Many

Imagine this: You’re at work during a busy Saturday night, pouring drinks for a lively crowd. The music's pumping, and laughter fills the air. Then, from the corner of your eye, you notice a customer who’s had a few too many, stumbling towards their car. What do you do?

The Right Answer Is Clear

You must intervene. If you're thinking about how to handle this situation, the answer is straightforward: you need to take action. Attempting to prevent them from leaving and calling a cab or arranging alternate transportation isn’t just smart; it's the right thing to do. Why? Because you care about the safety of your customers, other patrons, and the community.

Why Intervening Makes Sense

Picture this: When you stop someone from driving while impaired, you're not just dodging a potential accident; you’re taking a stand for responsible alcohol service. You're saying, "Hey, I care about your well-being and everyone else out there on the road." We often forget that serving alcohol comes with significant responsibilities.

Avoiding the Traps of Indifference

Let’s break down the other choices:

• Serving them another drink? This definitely doesn’t help the situation; it’s like throwing gasoline on a fire.
• Ignoring the scenario? That’s a recipe for disaster. Imagine the guilt if something terrible happens after you did nothing!
• Just asking them to wait? That’s like waiting for an ice cream cone to not melt—it's not gonna happen fast enough!

The Critical Role of a Server

Here’s the thing: Your job isn’t solely about pouring drinks and collecting tips. When you're behind the bar, you're on the front lines of public safety. You need to recognize when a customer is reaching that point of no return with their alcohol consumption. Your actions can directly impact lives. So, how does one stay proactive?

Recognizing the Signs

Paying attention to how your customers carry themselves is essential. Slurred speech, unsteady walking, or excessive boasting can all indicate someone who might not be fit to drive. As a server, your insight is invaluable. Making a mental note can be lifesaving later.

How to Step Up Responsibility

1. Call for Help: If you assess someone isn’t fit to drive, don't hesitate to ask for local transportation services. Many establishments have relationships with cab companies that will respond quickly.
2. Offer Alternatives: Suggest taking a ride with a sober friend if they’re there. You can even offer to help arrange for a rideshare app if they’re familiar with it.
3. Engage them in Conversation: Oftentimes, simply engaging a customer in conversation can distract them and delay their departure. You might even talk about safer options like waiting for a bit or enjoying a soft drink instead.

The Bigger Picture

This isn’t just about laws or training—it’s about ethics and community responsibility. Alcohol server training is designed to equip you with the skills necessary to promote a safer environment. Remember, the laws surrounding intoxicated persons driving vary from place to place, but the ethical obligation remains universal.

Wrapping It All Up

In summary, the best path involves seriously intervening if a customer appears ready to drive after drinking. Arranging for alternative transportation shows diligence and care, while neglecting the situation could have devastating repercussions. Remember, every time you choose to be a responsible server, you're not just protecting your establishment, you're safeguarding lives—and that’s a responsibility worth owning.