LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — The countdown to the Kentucky Derby has officially begun, and so have the celebrations.

From 502'sDay to the Kentucky Oaks and the main event at Churchill Downs, the week is packed with festivities. But while the drinks are flowing and the parties are in full swing, Louisville area police are urging partygoers to make a plan before the first toast is made.

Whether you’re at Churchill Downs or a private party, if your plans include alcohol, police say a designated driver or ride-share app could prevent you from ending up in handcuffs, the hospital or worse.

Pewee Valley Police Chief Steve Healey, a former assistant chief with Louisville Metro Police Department, is among those warning revelers not to overlook their ride home.

"You're planning on what outfit you're going to wear, what hat’s going to go with that outfit. You need to be planning on how you're going to get to and from if alcohol is going to be in your plans," Healey said.

He stressed that the cost of not planning ahead can be devastating.

"You see young people that are taken from us way too soon," Healey said. "All age groups can be affected by someone’s poor decision to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol."

With ride-share apps and designated drivers widely available, Healey said there’s simply “no excuse.”

"Legally, you can go to jail for a DUI, you can lose your driving privileges. But worse than that, you can lose your life or cause someone else to lose theirs," he said.

Those attending Derby week events are echoing the importance of responsibility.

"I think using Uber is a great option," said Candice Isa. "Or get a DD. I have my daughter being my DD for the weekend."

Isa, a Derby regular, said experience has taught her the importance of staying safe.

"It’s a long day, and a lot of people are drinking. I want to have a safe ride home."

Mark Rhodes, who is new to the Derby experience, said the message is clear.

"You absolutely have to use alcohol responsibly," Rhodes said. "We’ll be using an Uber service or some sort of ride share. Everybody wants to have a good time, but at the same time, make sure you’re taking care of everybody else who's involved."

Law enforcement agencies across the region are working together to ensure safety during Derby week, with dispatch systems ready to coordinate across counties.

Police said if you plan to drink, make sure you also plan how to get home safely—before heading out.

Some ride sharing apps include:

  • Uber - offers rides throughout Louisville, but expect increased demand and potential surge pricing during Derby Week
  • Lyft - similar to Uber, Lyft operates in the area with possible surge pricing during peak times
  • zTrip - a local rideshare service providing both app-based and traditional taxi services.
  • Yellow Cab of Louisville - a longstanding local taxi service offering rides via phone or app.​
  • TARC (Transit Authority of River City) - public transportation with routes around Louisville

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