This weekend’s St. Patrick’s day will be a time of celebration for many, but when some celebrate a bit too much, there is a danger for the holiday to turn deadly. While AAA East Central and the Kentucky Office of Highway Safety (KOHS) want everyone to enjoy the holiday, it is important to do so with safety in mind. Planning ahead to avoid operating a vehicle under the influence can keep you and others safe throughout the weekend.
“Not only can a DUI result in devastating crashes, but a conviction can weigh heavily on your pocketbook,” says Theresa Podguski, director of legislative affairs for AAA East Central. “Alcohol and driving should never mix, and simple steps taken before a celebration can go a long way towards keeping you and everyone around you safe.”
KOHS statistics show that drinking and driving continues to be a prevailing problem across the state. Preliminary figures from 2018 show that there were 87 alcohol-related deaths throughout the year.
“Drunken driving-related crashes are 100 percent preventable and our goal is to have zero,” said Jason Siwula, acting executive director of KOHS. “All we ask is that drivers be responsible and make a plan for a sober ride home. No matter what you choose – a sober friend, taxi service or ride-booking company – we want you to arrive to your destination safely.”
To help spread awareness, KOHS will use its 75 digital freeway message boards to display the message: “Don’t Press Your Luck. Drive Sober.”
Tips for avoiding DUI:
Make transportation arrangements before you head out for the night. Some options include;
Designate a driver.
Take a cab, or a ride share.
Utilize local public transit.
Rent a hotel room or stay overnight where you are.
If hosting a party, offer non-alcoholic drinks to designated drivers. If possible, provide overnight accommodations to guests who’ve been drinking.
Take the car keys away from friends and relatives who have had too much to drink.
Commit to never driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
If you suspect a driver is under the influence, stay as far behind their vehicle as possible and as soon as it’s safe to do so, pull over and call 911.
AAA East Central is a not-for-profit association with 80 local offices in Kentucky, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia serving 2.7 million members. News releases are available at news.eastcentral.aaa.com. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.