I am experiencing a serious case of sleep deprivation. And no, it is not because of the merry-making late into the wee hours because of the festive season.

Truth be told, it is simply because, after years of being a faithful public transport user, I have recently terminated my commitment - by buying a car.

Unfortunately, it isn't as glamorous as it seems and having your own ride may not be such a good thing after all.

First, I miss taking the train to work. It used to be the perfect start to the morning. I used to treasure that half-hour period as it was the rare time of the day when I could allow my mind to go completely blank and surrender without a fight to the Zzz-monster.

Aside from the occasional screaming and crying of an infant or the inconsiderate commuter who persisted in talking at the top of his voice on his handphone, it always used to be a pleasant journey.

Oh, and the sights. Women cannot possibly look and smell better than in the morning, when they are all dolled up in their best office wear.

For those who have a thing for the 'wet hair' look, do yourself and the congested roads a favour by ditching the car and taking the train. You will not be disappointed.

EXPLETIVES

But now I have to be at the top of my game immediately after breakfast. I have to blare my horn and zig-zag through traffic while looking out for motorbikes crossing my path. I am sure my blood pressure has taken a turn for the worse.

As I am not the most patient of drivers, I now exercise the full list of expletives I have at my finger tips - in Malay, Hokkien, Cantonese and English.

The words would shame even a drunken sailor.

Since we are on the topic of driving, please do yourself a big favour by not drinking and driving. Not just during this festive season, but ever.

In the first 11 months of this year, a total of 24 lives were lost due to accidents caused by drink-driving. That sad statistic works out to a little over two deaths a month.

Be responsible. If you suspect or know that you are over the limit, don't get into the driver's seat. Fork out that extra cash by calling Comfort's Drink Jockey Service (Tel: 6552 0700).

This call-a-chauffeur service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and you will be driven right to your doorstep.

Be safe. Don't be a hero.