Officials urge people not to drink and drive ahead of New Year’s festivities

jacksonville, florida – As many prepare to welcome the New Year, officials and advocates want drivers to celebrate responsibly.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 209 drunk driving-related deaths nationwide in 2020 between Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Officials also say New Year’s Day is one of the most dangerous holidays of the year.

AAA has some tips to keep in mind.

• Always have a designated driver who does not intend to drink alcohol.

• Never get behind the wheel of a car while you are drinking or driving with someone who has been drinking.

• Don’t hesitate to get the key from a disabled friend or family member.

• If you host a party, remind your guests to stay safe and always serve non-alcoholic beverages.

• If you encounter a driver with a disability on the road, keep a safe distance and ask a passenger to call 911 or stop in a safe place and call yourself.

All DUI deaths are preventable, according to anti-drink-driving mothers, and the organization’s advocates are nervous at this time.

“Do you want to lose someone you care about? Do you want to see them get hurt or die or go to jail? Because these are the options when someone leaves home with a disability.” Unfortunately, it’s a very real thing that we always have to deal with at MADD.We want to educate and we want people to have a good time.People over the age of 21 want to drink. I just want to make sure they have a plan before they get behind the wheel, any alcohol is too much alcohol to be behind the wheel. ”

There are also options for people, such as Farah and Farah’s annual free ride program ($50 Uber credit or taxi up to 30 miles from the passenger’s pickup location).

For more information, visit FarahandFarah.com/NYE.

AAA also has a Tow To Go option that dispatches a tow truck to bring the driver and vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius. This option will be available until Monday, January 2, 2023 at 6:00 PM. Call 855-286-9246 for more information.