PITTSBURGH -- Drinking and driving is a dangerous mix that can land you in jail, or even the morgue.

Three young entrepreneurs want to give Pittsburgh-area drivers another option to get home safely, after a night on the town.

If you aren't out with a designated driver, or a cab won't do, hand your keys over to Pear Transportation.

The company, formed by Mike Conley, Tony Ciotti and Danielle Danzuso, is a designated driver service. The founders said their company fills a need in a city with transportation challenges.

"We all realize the lack of public transportation options after dark in the city, and some frustration with any other option you have. It was just kind of things we have seen, being social young people around the area," Ciotti said.

For about the cost of a cab ride, Pear Transportation will take both you, and your vehicle, home safely.

"I think now that I am older and more responsible, I know how important it is that A, (to) have your car home with you if you are about and B, more importantly, be safe while you are doing it," said Danzuso.

The trio makes seven to 15 runs a night.

Similar services operate in other cities and the company founders said Pear Transportation is a solution for a common Pittsburgh problem.

"We certainly didn't think we would be the answer to the problem, but we are certainly trying now," Ciotti said.

The company has enjoyed an early success and its founders said what has been most surprising to them is who is using the service the most: not the bar-hopping 20-somethings, but rather clients in their 40s and 50s.

"These people are the kind of people that really see the value of this kind of service and are going to use us maybe two, maybe three times a week," Ciotti said.

The founders, who are all in their 20s, said their slogan of "Pear Cares" is catching on, but success has not been without sacrifice. Making transporation available 24-7 means giving up nights and weekends.

"Right now, as we hire more employees, we are working on giving ourselves a rotation of taking nights out. You cannot completely cut out your social life."

Pear Transportation recommends making a reservation if you want to use the service at 412-324-8000 or visiting www.thepearcares.com

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