December 2024 – Don’t Impair Holiday Plans, Drive Sober!

Your presence is a present!

You’ve probably heard that before, and maybe it seems a little corny or clichéd, but its message is both simple and true. The holiday season can be a whirlwind with travel plans or hosting arrangements, celebration set-up and planning, and last-minute gift buying. It’s easy to take safe travels for granted, and devastating when something goes wrong. As with most other holidays, particularly those involving travel, this time of year can be dangerous on the road. Distractions abound, the stress to be “on-time” can lead to speeding and other risky driving behaviors, and many enjoy alcoholic drinks to celebrate but still choose to get behind the wheel.

The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) reports 54 alcohol-related deaths on Nebraska roads this year. That’s over 20% of the total fatalities so far this year! Impaired driving doesn’t just increase the risk for the driver, but for anyone in the vehicle with them, vehicles around them, and pedestrians, street workers, and more. Law enforcement across the state is participating in the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign to try to keep those individuals off the road, but there’s so much that can be done before that point. 

• Uber Voucher Program (NDOT): NDOT has partnered to provide $10 discount vouchers for a ride home and to back to your car the next day (while rides last).
• Tow To Go (AAA): AAA’s Tow to Go program sends a truck to give you and your car a ride home. Membership in AAA is not required!
• Designate a sober driver in advance.
• Don’t let others drive impaired.
• If possible, plan to stay overnight instead of traveling home.