Drunk driving during the holidays poses a serious risk on Maryland's roads. As celebrations ramp up this holiday season, so do alcohol-related car accidents. With this in mind, the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) and Lyft have teamed up to help Maryland promote ride-hailing as a safer option for residents who may consume alcohol or impairing substances before driving. This initiative involves $40,000 in grant funding, with Maryland and Ohio each receiving $20,000 to roll out fall campaigns that encourage responsible choices.
Why is drunk driving more dangerous during the holidays?
Drunk driving rates spike significantly on holidays such as Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly half of all road fatalities on Halloween night in 2022 were due to impaired drivers. On Thanksgiving Eve, sometimes called "Blackout Wednesday" or "Drinksgiving," increased binge drinking leads to a similar rise in preventable car accidents. Nationally, drunk driving deaths have jumped 33% in just three years, from 10,196 in 2019 to 13,524 in 2022.
What are Maryland's plans to combat drunk driving this holiday season?
With its $20,000 grant, the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration's Highway Safety Office is expanding its "Be the MAKE A PLAN Driver" campaign, which will emphasize the importance of pre-arranging a sober ride. The campaign will offer 1,000 ride credits valued at $20 each across Maryland. It will promote these incentives through social media and public outreach. The goal is to ensure partygoers plan ahead to keep themselves and others safe on Maryland's roads.
How does ride-hailing reduce drunk driving?
Studies have shown a clear link between the availability of ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft and a reduction in drunk driving collisions. Research conducted in major cities across the U.S., including Boston, Los Angeles, and Atlanta, shows that access to ride-hailing can decrease DUI arrests by up to 53%.
In a recent survey, 59% of Lyft riders reported using the service when they plan to consume alcohol. "Impaired driving is 100% preventable, and ride-hailing is a key part of the solution," said GHSA Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Adkins. "GHSA and Lyft remain committed to providing an easy alternative to getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or drugs, making our roads safer for everyone."
The partnership between GHSA and Lyft allows for campaigns tailored to high-risk areas and events. By focusing on targeted outreach, these campaigns reach individuals most likely to drive impaired during gatherings. Both Maryland and Ohio plan additional awareness efforts in the days leading up to Thanksgiving, promoting ride-hailing as a reliable alternative.
How can Marylanders plan for a safer holiday season?
Other than not drinking at all, the best strategy to avoid drunk driving during the holidays is to plan for a safe ride before heading out. Here are some effective tips to prevent drunk driving during the holiday season:
- Choose a designated driver: Bring someone along who commits to staying sober and handling the ride home.
- Use ride-hailing discounts: Many cities offer discounted rides during the holidays. Check local campaigns or apps for deals that make getting home safely even easier.
- Stay over if you're unsure: If you're at a holiday gathering, consider staying overnight if it's safe to do so, rather than risking the drive.
- Host responsibly: If you're throwing a party, provide non-alcoholic options and encourage guests to plan safe rides.
- Keep an eye on friends: Don't let friends or family drive if they've been drinking. Offer to call a ride for them instead.
- Know your limits: Even if you feel okay, remember that alcohol impairs judgment. Make the safer choice and don't drive.
Our law firm is committed to holding drunk drivers accountable
If you or a loved one were injured in a crash caused by a drunk driver, the Maryland drunk driving accident lawyers at Goldberg Finnegan can help you seek justice, accountability, and compensation for your losses. We have helped Maryland crash victims recover compensation in serious cases just like yours. We'll build a strong claim on your behalf and pursue full compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and all your other accident-related expenses.
During a no-cost case evaluation, we'll listen to your story, answer your questions, and help you explore your potential legal options. Contact us today to discuss your case with an experienced drunk driving accident attorney who's committed to fighting for your rights.
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