ATLANTA – As holiday parties and gatherings are in full swing, the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety in Georgia is urging people to plan their rides home if they choose to consume alcohol. The annual “Driver Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign is now in effect, with the Georgia State Patrol, local sheriff’s offices, and police forces increasing their presence on the roads to ensure safety.
Lt. Maurice Raines of the Georgia State Patrol emphasized the importance of having a plan in place, urging individuals not to drink and drive. Despite the preventable nature of driving under the influence, statistics reveal a concerning trend. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 40% of fatalities in car crashes in Georgia during the Christmas holidays from 2017 to 2021 involved a drunk driver.
Raines highlighted the severe consequences of drunk driving, including the loss of driving privileges, potential jail time, financial burdens, and the possibility of causing or being involved in a fatal accident.
To encourage responsible choices, the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, through a grant, is offering a $20 voucher for rides through the rideshare service Lyft. Additionally, AAA’s Tow-To-Go service is available, providing a confidential ride home or to another location within a 10-mile radius, regardless of AAA membership.
Allen Poole, Director of the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, urged individuals to obey speed limits, wear seat belts, and never drive impaired during the holiday season. The campaign aims to reduce drunk driving incidents and promote safer roads throughout the festive period.