Drive Sober, Celebrate Safely

December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month

NEW CITY, NY – With the holiday season in full swing, the Rockland County Department of Health (RCDOH) reminds drivers about the dangers of impaired driving. In fact, every day in the United States someone dies every 42 minutes in a drunk-driving crash. Data shows that drunk and impaired driving, caused by illegal drugs or prescription medications, significantly increases during the holidays.

In New York State, there are strict penalties for driving under the influence including fines, license suspension, and potential jail time, depending on Blood Alcohol Content, or BAC, levels and drug-related violations.

The RCDOH urges residents to stay safe by following these NHTSA tips:

• Never drink and drive. Even one alcoholic beverage can impair your ability to drive. Always designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation/ride services to get home safely.
• Help others make safe choices. If someone you know has been drinking or using drugs, do not let them drive. Take their keys and help arrange a safe ride home.
• Plan for gatherings. If you’re hosting a party where alcohol is served, make sure every guest has a sober ride home.
• Report dangerous drivers. If you observe someone driving recklessly or under the influence, call 911 – your quick action could save a life.
• Buckle up. Wearing your seat belt is your best protection against impaired drivers on the road.

The national "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" enforcement campaign is currently underway during which state and local law enforcement increase patrols and checkpoints to catch impaired (alcohol/drug) drivers. Drivers are encouraged to download the STOP-DWI “Have A Plan” mobile app for help locating a safe ride home.

“Celebrations should not be ruined by crashes caused by impaired driving,” said Dr. Albert Del Principio, Ed.D., Rockland County STOP-DWI & Traffic Safety Coordinator. “December is one of the most dangerous months on the roads. Crashes caused by impaired driving can be prevented by making one simple, smart choice: don’t drink and drive. This decision can save lives and protect families in our community and across the country.”

For more information about impaired driving, visit the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee.

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