Designated Driver? There’s An App For That

Revelers in Morris County now have an easy way to avoid getting behind the wheel after drinking, just by using their smart phone. StearClear, a Wyckoff-based smart driving company, brought its designated driver service to Morristown this past January and have since expanded their service to the entire Morris County area.

Users can either call (862) 345-6340 or log into the StearClear smart phone app to register and/or schedule a ride. A drive team of two people will arrive t the location; one drives the inebriated home in their car while the other follows to pick up the first driver. The mileage and ride cost is automatically calculated prior to placing an order so you know exactly how much you’ll be charged. Rates are $25 per pickup plus $2.65 per mile.

Joshua Heffler, StearClear of Morristown franchise owner, said he used to call his parents when he needed a ride home but knew others who didn’t make the same decisions.

“While in college, I learned that one of my fraternity brothers was driving under the influence when he and four of his best friends/brothers were involved in a tragic accident while on spring break,” Heffler said. “Three of the men died and my fraternity brother went to prison for the murder of three of his best friends/brothers.”

Heffler said that tragedy was enough to permanently alter my personal behavior regarding driving while intoxicated or being driven by someone who is less than completely sober. Heffler said while working for both the Marriott and Hilton chains in hotel operations he saw that less-than-sober guests were reluctant to either stay overnight at the hotel or leave their cars at the hotels and take taxis home from weddings and other events.

After coming across an article on the SteerClear organization it seemed like a perfect fit.

“I could see that a service like this would remove the biggest obstacle to people acting responsibly, not wanting to return to the restaurant, bar or hotel to get their car the next morning,” Heffler said. “I knew that obtaining a franchise would give me an opportunity to make a difference to the safety of my community and could also succeed as a business.”

Heffler said since setting up shop in Morristown, the response to the concept has been very positive,

“People share our belief that this is a much needed service. The average DWI costs in NJ, with attorney fees, ranges from $6,000-$13,500,” Heffler said. “And that doesn’t include the cost/legal penalty of any accident that may result in loss of income. We are convinced that StearClear is part of the solution to the nationwide epidemic of drinking and driving.”

According to Heffler, the StearClear Designated Driver Service smartphone "app" is not only more efficient, but safer, and less expensive than calling for a taxi.

·       The customer guest may select from various drive teams and see their photos for easy identification prior to pickup.

·       The customer guest may monitor the location/progress of their drive team's approach to pick them up in real time and minimize any waiting for their arrival.

·       All mileage and billing issues are pre-calculated and settled by the StearClear GPS and billing system. No need to fumble around for money in the dark while "impaired."

All in all, Heffler said his goal is to show people it is possible to have fun while still being responsible.

“We hope to achieve a ‘win/win’ for the community. Encourage responsible fun and business at local restaurants and bars but at the same time keep the roads and citizens of Morris County safe,” Heffler said. “We think these are both worthwhile goals.”

To access the StearClear service, download the free application at www.Stearclear.com and click on the App Store or Google Play icon. Or call (862) 345-6340 for more information.