Sunday, December 4, 2011

Enjoy the Eggnog and Still Get Home Safe!

December is National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month. With so many festivities this month, there is an increase in social functions and, ultimately, more people drinking and driving.
• Someone dies in an alcohol-related traffic crash every 30 minutes.
• Every two minutes someone is hurt in an alcohol-related accident.
• Three out of every 10 Americans face the possibility of being directly involved in an alcohol-related traffic crash during their lifetime.

According to TN.gov, a single DUI conviction could cost you as much as $5,000 or more after all fines and fees have been paid! Think of all the better things you could spend that on!


What you can do

Whenever your social plans involve alcohol, make plans so that you don’t have to drive after drinking.

• Prior to any drinking, designate a non-drinking driver when with a group. Oftentimes, designated drivers (DDs) get into bars for free, and are served nonalcoholic drinks on the house.

• Remember to eat before and while you drink. Take soda or water breaks every few hours.

• Don’t let your friends drive impaired. Be a true friend and take their keys away if they try.

• If you’re hosting a party where alcohol will be served, remind your guests to plan ahead and designate their sober driver, offer alcohol-free beverages, and make sure all guests leave with a sober driver.

If you live in Knoxville, think about calling a taxi. It would be cheaper than a DUI and preferable to getting in a wreck.

Also, Knoxville offers an interesting service called ScooterGuy where someone picks you up and delivers your car to your house! According to their Facebook page, “Once you call the dispatch service our drivers arrive, fold up their Di Blassi scooter, put it in the trunk of your car, and drive you to your destination.”

With services like that, there’s NO excuse to put yourself or other people on the road at risk this holiday season. Have fun responsibly!

Sources:


Post by Rachel Belcher
 
 
Note: Preston Medical Library does not endorse any of the businesses referenced in this post.

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