Go into 2026 safely: Free rides available on New Years for Virginians

With the end of the year quickly approaching, you may find yourself making plans for New Year’s Eve. We’re sharing a variety of resources available to Virginians in an effort to reduce drinking and driving.

Do you have fun plans for New Year’s Eve? As the holiday approaches, it’s a good idea to start planning your night with transportation in mind. 

Tork Law noted that a total of 62% of New Year’s auto accident deaths were caused by drunk drivers from a four-year study period, 2011-2015.

Such startling statistics make it crucial to explore the resources available to Virginians to get home safely. We’ve compiled a list of free or low-cost options to encourage drivers to stay off of the road while impaired. 

In Lynchburg, Bee Line Towing offers a free New Year’s Eve safe-ride service to prevent drunk driving. From 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Dec. 31, anyone within a 20-mile radius can call for a free ride home for both the driver and their vehicle— a helpful option for party-goers who want to avoid driving while impaired and ensure their car is safely returned to their driveway.

Attorney Andrew Flusche offers a holiday rideshare reimbursement program to help reduce drunk driving. During select holidays, including New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, individuals 21 and over can receive up to $25 reimbursed for one Uber, Lyft, or cab ride taken within the Fredericksburg area. Restrictions apply, and submissions are limited.

If you’re celebrating New Year’s in the Hampton area, the 757 Sober Ride program offers a great option to get home safely. From 10 p.m. on New Year’s Eve to 4 a.m. on New Year’s Day, you can use a special Lyft promo code for up to $15 off one ride home. This promotion is available in qualifying areas only. For more details and to check eligibility, visit the Drive Safe Hampton Roads website.

If you’re planning to ring in the New Year in the Washington, DC metro area, including parts of Northern Virginia, the WRAP SoberRide program provides a safe way to get home. From 10 p.m. on New Year’s Eve to 4 a.m. on New Year’s Day, you can use a special Lyft promo code for up to $15 off one ride. This promotion is available to individuals aged 21 and over in the program’s coverage area. Visit the Washington Regional Alcohol Program for more information and to access the promo code.

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