While drunk driving was and is a huge problem, and does cost lives, I do think the USA (and maybe UK, I don't live there) have massively over-corrected on the problem. The pendulum has swung so far, and cops enforce so aggressively, that you really can't chance even having a single beer while out with your car--even if you know it won't put you over the limit. And a DUI on your past record will stay with you basically forever.

Depending on the US State, you can even get a DUI for many things that don't involve drinking or driving:

- You're merely seated in a vehicle while intoxicated

- You're sleeping in the car with your car keys nearby, and intoxicated

- You're standing outside a vehicle while intoxicated, without any intention of driving

- You're in possession of car keys near your car, while intoxicated

- You're tired or lost (but haven't been drinking) and the officer thinks you are intoxicated

No, I don't want to go back to the days when it was socially acceptable for people to get shitfaced and drive home because it's just around the corner. I had a classmate killed 2 years out of high school as a passenger of such an asshat. But I do think we've over-corrected to the point where I won't even dare to drive to dinner or a pub if I'm going to have a single beer there. I just drink at home now.

In the past (before cars) people used to work and socialise far more locally.