This holiday season, the Sandersville Police Department is teaming up with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Georgia GOHS to remind all drivers about the dangers of drinking and driving. Before traveling to holiday festivities or seasonal vacations, make sure to plan for a sober designated driver before enjoying an alcoholic beverage. This holiday season, and every day, remember: Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.
“We want our community to enjoy a safe and happy holiday season. With more drivers on the roads during this busy time of year, it’s more important than ever for us to stress the importance of safe driving habits,” said Captain Kelly Collins of the Sandersville Police Department. “We know everyone is rushing around, finishing those last-minute errands and attending various holiday parties, but before you ever head out to the festivities, make sure to plan a sober ride home because driving drunk should never be an option. Help us spread the message: Even one drink is one drink too many if you’re the driver.”
In 2018, 1,079 traffic fatalities in Georgia were alcohol related. This is why the Sandersville Police Department is working with the NHTSA and Georgia GOHS to remind drivers that drunk driving is not only illegal, but a matter of life or death for the driver, passengers, pedestrians, and other motorist.
As a designated driver, make sure to keep the promise of safety. Stay hydrated with water and other non-alcoholic beverages and support other designated drivers.
Party with a Plan
Before ever heading out, it is vital to plan ahead. Follow these ideas to ensure safety for all party-goers:
- Remember that it is never okay to drink and drive. Even after only one alcoholic beverage, designate a sober driver or plan to use a ride service to get home safely.
- If an individual sees a drunk driver on the road, contact the Sandersville Police dispatch at 552-3038.
- Have a friend who is about to drink and drive? Take the keys away and make arrangements to get them home safely.