During the holidays and all year-round, it is important to never mix drinking with driving. We must work together as a community during this time of celebration to minimize drunk driving incidents. The statistics speak for themselves; every day there are unfortunately too many people who choose drink before getting behind the wheel, putting not only their lives but also those around them at risk.
2020 Traffic Crash Facts
The devastating effects of alcohol-related crashes in 2020 were felt across The Sunshine State. According to the FLHSMV, there was a total of 4,554 alcohol-confirmed accidents with 393 participants sustaining incapacitating injuries and 2,203 other individuals suffering injury as well. To make matters worse, 349 fatal accidents occurred throughout Florida during that same year with 384 fatalities attributed specifically to the prevalence of alcohol use while driving – a startlingly high number.
Have A Designated Driver
To ensure that you and your friends have a safe night out, make sure to assign someone as the designated driver. Always remember to be respectful when asking them if they’d like take on this responsibility – it’s not something you should demand or expect of anyone. That way, all of your group can enjoy drinks without worrying about who will get behind the wheel later in the evening. Your designated driver won’t consume any alcohol and will always be ready to get everyone home safely!
Get A Ride
With so many options for getting from one place to another, there’s no excuse for anyone to take the wheel after drinking. Cabs and buses are reliable forms of transportation that can bring you wherever you need to go without having to worry about driving intoxicated. Additionally, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are available with just a few taps on your smartphone. Their user-friendly apps make it simpler than ever before, proving perfect for those nights when alcohol is involved.
Host An Event
This year, why not throw a festive gathering for your family and friends? You’ll be able to enjoy drinks with no worries about having to drive afterward. Just make sure you stock up on all the necessary supplies so that nothing is missing – that way, you won’t have any reason or excuse to drive.
What if it’s a friend who wants to drive?
MADD, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, suggests never letting anyone get behind the wheel of a car drunk, if you can help it.
- Calmly suggest other alternatives.
- Take their car keys.
- If you can’t stop them, call law enforcement.
- Never get in a car with someone who is drunk.
- Contact law enforcement if you spot a motorist driving erratically.
- If friends come over and drink, make sure they have a safe ride home or a place to stay.