Are Uber and Lyft Changing Drunk Driving? | Lawyer Talk Q & A

I hear this question a lot—have Uber and Lyft actually led to fewer drunk driving cases?

Drawing on my years of experience as a DUI defense attorney, I share how rideshare apps have shifted the landscape of drinking and driving, especially among 21-year-olds today.

I also discuss why, even with the best intentions and easy access to Uber and Lyft, people still find themselves in trouble after a few drinks. I tell some real-life stories from my practice and offer practical advice on how to truly avoid an OVI.

So stick around for an honest look at why good decisions can go bad—and what you can do to stay safe.

3 Key Takeaways:

• Technology Doesn’t Override Human Nature: Alcohol impairs the very part of the brain that helps us make rational decisions. Even the best-laid plans to use Uber can unravel after a few drinks.
• Education Matters Most: Younger people, especially those in college, seem more mindful about not drinking and driving—likely thanks to improved education and awareness campaigns, even more so than rideshare availability alone.
• Beware of “One Last Trip”: Many DUI cases happen after people responsibly get home via Uber, but later decide to drive for food, snacks, or late-night plans—still under the influence.

Got a question you want answered on the podcast? Call 614-859-2119 and leave us a voicemail. Steve will answer your question on the next podcast!

Submit your questions to www.lawyertalkpodcast.com.

Recorded at Channel 511.

Stephen E. Palmer, Esq. has been practicing criminal defense almost exclusively since 1995. He has represented people in federal, state, and local courts in Ohio and elsewhere.

Though he focuses on all areas of criminal defense, he particularly enjoys complex cases in state and federal courts.

He has unique experience handling and assembling top defense teams of attorneys and experts in cases involving allegations of child abuse (false sexual allegations, false physical abuse allegations), complex scientific cases involving allegations of DUI and vehicular homicide cases with blood alcohol tests, and any other criminal cases that demand jury trial experience.

Steve has unique experience handling numerous high-publicity cases that have garnered national attention.

For more information about Steve and his law firm, visit Palmer Legal Defense.

Copyright 2025 Stephen E. Palmer - Attorney At Law

Mentioned in this episode:

Circle 270 Media Podcast Consultants

Circle 270 Media® is a podcast consulting firm based in Columbus, Ohio, specializing in helping businesses develop, launch, and optimize podcasts as part of their marketing strategy. The firm emphasizes the importance of storytelling through podcasting to differentiate businesses and engage with their audiences effectively. www.circle270media.com