Thanksgiving Eve also known as “Blackout Wednesday” is one of the biggest drinking nights of the year in Pittsburgh. With college students home for the holidays and friends gathering across the city, local bars and restaurants are packed. Unfortunately, this night also sees a spike in DUI arrests and alcohol-related crashes throughout Allegheny County.
The good news? A little planning goes a long way. Here’s how to enjoy your Thanksgiving Eve safely—and avoid a DUI in Pittsburgh.
Why Thanksgiving Eve Is So Risky
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), DUI arrests and alcohol-related crashes surge during the Thanksgiving holiday period each year. Local police departments, including the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, Allegheny County Police, and PA State Police, often increase patrols and conduct sobriety checkpoints throughout the region.
Even one drink can put you over Pennsylvania’s legal BAC limit of 0.08%, and for drivers under 21, any measurable alcohol can lead to serious charges. The safest choice is simple: don’t drive if you drink at all.
Safe Ways to Get Home in Pittsburgh
If you plan to go out on Thanksgiving Eve, make your transportation plan before the first drink. Pittsburgh offers several affordable and convenient alternatives to driving yourself.
Rideshare Options
- Uber & Lyft – Available 24/7 across the city. Expect surge pricing in nightlife areas like the South Side, Lawrenceville, and the Strip District, so plan ahead or split fares with friends.
- zTrip Pittsburgh – A reliable taxi-style rideshare option that allows pre-scheduled rides through an app or by phone: (412) 777-7777.
Public Transportation
- Port Authority (Pittsburgh Regional Transit) operates buses, light rail (“T”), and inclines. Routes typically run until midnight, with service to neighborhoods like Oakland, North Side, and Dormont.
- Route info: www.rideprt.org
- Downtown Park & Ride lots make it easy to leave your car safely and enjoy the night without worrying about driving home.
Designated Driver or Sober Friend
Always the best option. Offer to be the designated driver one week, and let a friend return the favor the next. Many Pittsburgh bars even offer free soft drinks or discounts for sober drivers just ask your server.
Local Programs Promoting Safe Rides
Several Pittsburgh and Western PA organizations sponsor holiday safety programs:
- AAA “Tow to Go” Program – Occasionally active during holiday weekends; offers free tows for impaired drivers (check AAA’s site before Thanksgiving).
- Drive Safe PA Campaign – A PennDOT initiative encouraging safe holiday driving.
- Allegheny County DUI Task Force – Conducts checkpoints and offers public awareness updates via Facebook.
What to Do if You’ve Been Drinking
If you’ve already been drinking and don’t have a safe ride:
- Call a rideshare or taxi immediately.
- Stay overnight with a friend or at a nearby hotel.
- Never risk it—a first-time DUI in Pennsylvania can mean license suspension, thousands in fines, and even jail time.
Thanksgiving Eve should be about reconnecting, not regretting. With so many transportation options across Pittsburgh, there’s no reason to drive after drinking. Plan ahead, share a ride, and make sure everyone gets home safely.
Suggested Internal Links:
- Understanding Pennsylvania DUI Penalties
- What to Do After a DUI in Pittsburgh
- Pittsburgh DUI Classes and Treatment Centers
- DUI Help Near Me
Suggested External Resources:
