Give Your Loved Ones the Gift of Safety – Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving

December 19, 2011

There will be many reasons to be merry this holiday season. Making sure your loved ones enjoy themselves responsibly is one of the most reliable ways to guarantee their safety. That is why the Licking County Safe Communities Coalition would like everyone to embrace the spirit of driving sober this season.

“The message is simple, drinking alcohol and driving do not mix. If you plan to consume alcohol, you should not plan to get behind the wheel of a vehicle or ride a motorcycle,” said Kate White, Licking County Safe Communities Program Coordinator.

Unfortunately, millions of drivers on America’s highways continue to make deadly decisions by driving a vehicle or riding a motorcycle while intoxicated, which jeopardizes their safety and the safety of others on our roads. “We know that the holiday season can be one of the deadliest and most dangerous times on America’s roadways due to drunk driving,” said White. “Taking a risk on having your 2011 end in an arrest or death is just not worth it.”

During December 2009, there were 753 people killed in crashes that involved drivers or motorcycle riders with blood alcohol concentrations (BAC) of .08 grams per deciliter or higher. Licking County has experienced the effects of impaired driving first hand. In 2010, 10 people were killed in Licking County crashes that involved BAC’s above .08. Sadly, impaired driving accounted for almost half of the fatalities last year, at 45 percent.

Licking County Safe Communities Coalition recommends these simple tips for a safe holiday season.

• Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin.

• Before drinking, designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home.

• If you are impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation.

• If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, do not hesitate to contact your local law enforcement by calling 1-800-GRAB-DUI.

• And remember, Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving. If you know someone who is about to drive or ride with a driver who is impaired, take the driver’s keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.

For more information, please visit www.lickingcohealth.org/hed/safety.html.

Contact Info: Kate White kdwhite@lickingcohealth.org (740) 349-6535

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