Drinking and driving: the solution, Cape Town

Arrive alive ... speed kills ... friends don't let friends drive drunk. All of these slogans have been used in ad campaigns alerting motorists to the dangers of reckless and dangerous driving, particularly where alcohol is a factor.At WineX in Johannesburg last year WINE noticed an enterprising businessman who had recognised a gap in the market. What to do when you realise you are over the legal blood-alcohol limit but need to get home?

South Africans are fun-loving and carefree, and often don't think of the consequences of a few drinks after work or that extra bottle of wine with dinner - something that's taboo in the UK, for example. Drinking and driving is seen as non-negotiable - not even one beer or glass of wine should be consumed when driving.

But Adrian Bailey recognised that there are times when South Africans do worry about driving under the influence: they want to be responsible and travel home by taxi but are concerned about the security of leaving their cars in restaurant parking lots or on the street overnight.

The enterprising Johannesburg resident came up with a novel solution - Toot-n-Scoot.

Simply put, you call their 24-hour number and they'll drive you home - but with a scooter packed in the boot of your car.

These nippy little 30kg imported Italian scooters fold up and fit snugly into a carry bag that can be stowed in the boots of most cars. Upon delivering the client safely to the door, the scooter is unpacked and the driver heads off to his next assignment.

The fee charged depends on the distance travelled. Regulars and corporate clients are offered member packages, ensuring discounts because of the frequency of service.

Toot-n-Scoot has been operating in Johannesburg for two years and has just expanded into Durban (in December) and Cape Town (in January).

Anyone wanting to investigate further should log on to the website www.toot.co.za or call the 24-hour number 082 239 4668.

 

By Fiona McDonald