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Don’t spend New Year’s in the slammer; opt for one of these free rides home

Posted at 5:14 PM, Dec 31, 2015
and last updated 2015-12-31 17:14:52-05

RICHMOND, Va. -- Kyle Langemeier will welcome 2016 on three wheels, as he shuttles revelers across the Fan and downtown.

“New Year’s is going to be very busy this year,” says Langemeier.  “Our main bread and butter shift is nine to two in the morning.”

“This is a good intermediate transportation solution,” says Kyle.

Kyle’s rickshaw service, Spoken4, is just one of many transportation options for those who consume too much holiday cheer.

“The most challenging thing is people that fall asleep in the back,” he says.

Kyle Langemeier

Kyle Langemeier

Virginia State Police Sgt. Steve Vick says think twice before getting behind your wheel tipsy.

A DUI is way more expensive than an Uber or cab ride.

“You know our game plan. We’re going to be out in full force. We have zero tolerance,” says Sgt. Vick. “Basically don’t drink and drive.”

Make sure the only flashing lights you see this New Years are the ones at your celebration or in Times Square on television.  If not, you could start the New Year in the slammer and face hefty fines.

“We want to start 2016 on a good year. No crashes. No alcohol related crashes and no fatalities. Make that smart decision,” says Sgt. Vick.

sgtvick

Sgt. Steve Vick with Virginia State Police

Crystal Speeks-Strohecker says there is no excuse for driving drunk. The Allen and Allen Law firm is picking up the tab for Napoleon Taxi to pick you up.

“Every single cab that goes out; and every single New Year’s Eve has the potential to save a life,” says Speeks-Strohecker. “It is better to be waiting for a cab than to be waiting for your tombstone to be made anytime.”

Back in the Fan, Langemeier, says his rickshaw rides will also be free of charge.

“Most of the time drunk people love us because we are a unique ride,” he says.

Kyle says providing what could be a lifesaving service is the right way to crank in the New Year.

“Anytime you make sure someone has a great time and gets home safe without any bad effects -- that is a great.”

Free rides with Napoleon Taxi begin at 10 p.m. and run through 5 a.m.

The taxi will take you from a bar or party to your home but the driver will not take you to another bar. To call for a taxi call 804-354-TAXI (8294).

You have to ask for the free, sober ride home to get the free ride!

Spoken4’s free rickshaw rides begin at 7 p.m. and run through 2:30 a.m. To reserve a ride call 804-525-0532

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