Intrax takes your health, safety and welfare very seriously. Below you will find several tips for staying safe in the U.S. An important part of staying safe is being aware of state and federal laws.
Know before you go!
Useful links for traveling in the U.S.:
- http://www.usa.gov/Topics/Reference-Shelf/Laws.shtml#State_Laws_and_Regulations
- http://www.usa.gov/Topics/Reference-Shelf/Laws.shtml#Federal_Regulations
- http://www.usa.gov/Topics/Foreign-Visitors-Driving.shtml
- http://studenttravel.about.com/od/safestudenttravel/a/safetravel.htm
Alcoholic Beverages and Illegal Drug Reminders
Keep in mind that the legal drinking age in the U.S. is 21 years old. It is illegal to purchase or consume alcohol if you are under the age of 21. Additionally, if you are 21 it is illegal to buy alcohol for someone under the age of 21.If your gatherings involve alcohol, make plans so that you do not drive after drinking. For example:
- Prior to any drinking, designate a non-drinking driver when with a group. (Often called a DD or designated driver)
- Do not let your friends drive impaired. Take their keys away if necessary.
- If you have been drinking, get a ride home or call a taxi.
- If you are hosting a party where alcohol will be served, remind your guests to plan ahead and designate their sober driver; offer alcohol-free beverages; and make sure all guests leave with a sober driver.
Intrax cannot assist in covering the legal fees that come with a drunken driving (DUI) charge – jail, bail, court fees, lawyer, or car damages.Please check your local state law for drunk driving penalties through the Governors Highway Safety Association at http://www.ghsa.org/html/stateinfo/laws/impaired_laws.html
To calculate your estimated blood alcohol level, go to http://bloodalcoholcalculator.org and enter the information that applies to you.
Cannabis/marijuana is an illegal drug under Federal law. While some states have recently passed laws regarding marijuana, it is important to recognize that these states' marijuana laws do not change the fact that using marijuana continues to be an offense (illegal) under Federal law and is not permissible while on program.
Transportation
Be sure to familiarize yourself with the local public transportation options. This website can help you find the local buses, metro, trains etc. in your area: http://www.publictransportation.org/tools/local/Pages/default.aspx
If you plan on using taxi or a ride share service it's important to only use official services. Do not take rides from strangers. Many communities have taxi services you can find the typical rates here: http://www.taxifarefinder.com/ Ride sharing is often a less expensive option than taxi companies. These options include Uber and Lyft. To use these services you will need to download an app on your phone and have a credit or debit card.
Summer Safety Resources
Summer in the U.S. is typically associated with warm weather, time outdoors, swimming and many other fun activities. It's important to be prepared for all of these activities.Below are several websites with sun and water safety tips!
Summer can also be a time of extreme weather. Be sure to stay informed and prepared for your area. Hurricanes may require making adjustments to flights as well as taking into account safety precautions. Hurricanes are difficult to track and can easily change in intensity and direction quickly.Intrax strongly suggests that you call your airlines ahead of time to make sure that your flights have not been delayed or cancelled. If you are traveling on your grace period to this area, please stay informed of the weather.
Other resources:
