With holiday parties in full swing, President Obama and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) have declared December as Drunk Driving Prevention Month. The hope is that this proclamation will raise awareness about the consequences of driving under the influence, according to Dallas law firm Frenkel & Frenkel.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) there were 9,878 drunk-driving deaths in 2011.
Drunk Driving Statistics According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) there were 9,878 drunk-driving deaths in 2011. Although this number is lower than in previous years—and represents the first time since MADD began keeping statistics that drunk-driving deaths dropped below 10,000—each of these drunk-driving deaths represents someone who will not spend the holidays with loved ones, who will not open gifts, and who will not celebrate the coming of another year. For this reason, the president chose to proclaim December as Drunk Driving Prevention Month. Tie One On For Safety One way that MADD is celebrating National Drunk Driving Prevention Month is through the “Tie One on for Safety” campaign, now in its 26th year. During the holiday season, MADD asks that drivers tie a red ribbon on their vehicle to indicate they plan to drive safe and sober during the holiday season. In addition, the ribbons demonstrate support for law enforcement that works diligently to prevent drunk-driving accidents. Ways to Prevent Drunk Driving There are many ways that the average citizen can prevent drunk-driving accidents. The most important way is by designating a sober driver before heading to any festivities. It is important that the designated driver understand that they should drink no alcohol if they plan to drive. Never serve alcohol to those under age 21 if the party is at your house, and always provide a variety of non-alcoholic drink choices. In honor of Drunk Driving Prevention Month, arrange rides for those who have had too much to drink, whether by calling for a cab or you remaining sober to drive people home. The holidays are a time to celebrate with friends and family, but it is also the time of year when drunk driving occurs more frequently. Celebrate National Drunk Driving Prevention Month by being a designated driver. Frenkel & Frenkel is proud to support MADD’s efforts to make the roads safer by reducing the number of impaired drivers and fighting underage drinking. For more information, contact Frenkel & Frenkel, or fill out this form.
