'Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving' this holiday season

[November 26, 2008]  In December 2007, 992 people were killed in crashes that involved a drunk driver or motorcycle operator with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or higher.

There is no question that the holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year, from shopping for the perfect gift and trimming the tree to attending countless gatherings with family and friends. While it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it's important that people be responsible and remember that "Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving."

The consumption of alcohol, drugs and driving just don't mix. Saving lives on our roads is a top priority and we need everyone's help to do it. That's why the Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Task Force of the Healthy Communities Partnership and Chestnut Health Systems are joining with national, state and local highway safety officials to remind everyone of some simple steps they can take to enjoy a safe and festive holiday if you choose to drink, without jeopardizing your life and the lives of the others who may be on the road.

• Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin.

• Before drinking, please designate a sober driver and give that person your keys.

• If you're impaired, use a taxi, or call a sober friend or family member so you are sure to get home safely. Use your community's Sober Rides program if they are available in your area. A safe ride program is sponsored by the Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Task Force. They will provide free cab rides within Lincoln city limits on Thanksgiving Eve. There will also be an opportunity to access this service on New Year's Eve.

• If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don't hesitate to contact your local law enforcement.

• Remember, if you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.

• Don't ride with an impaired driver. It isn't worth the risks.

• And, finally if you are under 21, it is illegal to drink. It isn't worth the problems that can arise. Violators could face the loss of their driver's license for a period of time, higher insurance rates and dozens of other unanticipated expenses, including attorney fees, fines and court costs, towing and repairs, and lost time at work.

Driving a vehicle or a motorcycle while impaired is simply wrong, and it is not worth the risk of killing yourself or someone else. This holiday season, don't let your year end in an arrest -- or even worse, death. Make smart decisions. Plan ahead, so you can assure a safe way home.

Whether you've had way too many or just one too many, it's not worth the risk.

For more information, visit www.StopImpairedDriving.org.

[Text from file received from Chestnut Health Systems]