There’s no shortage of days to celebrate in the month of December. At Rohrich Automotive, we hope that everyone has a safe and happy holiday with an extra emphasis on safety.
As much as this month is filled with family and fun, it is also important to be especially cautious on the roads with so much traveling. We don’t want this month’s blog to decrease your holiday spirit, rather we remind you that you can never be too careful.
In 2012, December was declared National Impaired Driving Prevention month. National Impaired Driving Prevention Month isn’t about avoiding alcohol consumption as much as it is about putting plans into place to ensure the safety of you, your loved ones, and even others on the road. Unfortunately, with all the December festivities, there is an increase in the number of impaired driving accidents. Before taking that first drink, make sure you’re socializing safely by making proper travel arrangements ahead of time. Here are some things you can do:
Coordinate a designated driver: Make a deal with your significant other when going out. For example, you be the designated driver on Christmas Eve and have your spouse drive on New Year’s Eve.
Call an Uber or a Lyft: “But they’re expensive during the holidays?” Not as expensive as a DUI and worth the price of you or somebody else’s life. “But it’s difficult to get a ride to pick me up on high volume days?” Both Uber and Lyft now allow you to schedule rides in advance to make sure you have a ride in place before that first swig of eggnog.
Slumber Party: Usually you’re enjoying a few drinks at the home of a friend or a family member. Don’t think you’re too old for a sleepover because you are NOT! A night on your cousin’s couch is better than a night in jail.
Don’t be too proud: “But I only had one drink, I’m fine!” The National Safety Council states that just a single drink can cause a decline in visual function, mental judgment and motor skills, resulting in driver impairment. So even if you have one drink, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Reading this, you may think that these tips are obvious, but every year drinking and driving can make some people’s holidays not so merry and bright. This year we urge you to be responsible and have a plan. And last but certainly not least…Happy Holidays from all of us here at Rohrich Automotive Group.
For more information on National Impaired Driving Prevention month and how to celebrate responsibly, you can visit the National Safety Council website by clicking here.