There Are No Festivities in Jail - Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over

As you celebrate the holiday season enjoying traditions, food, family and fun, be reminded that local law enforcement will be out in force this holiday season from December 16, 2011, to January 2, 2012, to arrest anyone caught driving drunk behind the wheel.

The message is simple, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. Drinking alcohol and driving do not mix. If you plan to consume alcohol, you should also plan not to get behind the wheel of a vehicle or ride a motorcycle.

Unfortunately millions of drivers on America’s highways still think they are invincible, and they choose to jeopardize their safety and the safety of others on our roads.

There will be no spreading holiday cheer behind the bars of a jail cell. Don’t let your 2011 holiday season end in an arrest or worse, death. Remember, whether you’ve had way too many or just one too many, it’s not worth the risk.

In December 2009, there were 753 people killed in crashes that involved drivers or motorcycle riders with blood alcohol concentrations of .08 grams per deciliter or higher.

Prevent Child Abuse Indiana 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’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation;
 Use your community’s sober ride program;
 If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact your local law enforcement;
 If you provide child care for parents who are going to a party, make sure the parents know in advance that you will not release the kids to parents who appear to be impaired. If an impaired parent shows up to take their kids home, do everything you can to dissuade them from getting behind the wheel. Offer to call a cab or drive the family home yourself. Call law enforcement if necessary. Yes, a confrontation may be unpleasant at the time, but it’s not nearly as tragic as what may happen if you don’t intervene.
 And remember, Drive Sober Or Get Pulled Over. If you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take that person’s keys and help him or her make other arrangements to get home safely.

For more information, please visit www.TrafficSafetyMarketing.gov