Local and state law enforcement authorities are stressing the importance of driving sober and safely this New Year’s Eve.
Virginia State Police recently reported that five fatal crashes took place over the Christmas holiday weekend. Among the fatalities were one pedestrian, one moped operator and three drivers, and alcohol was a factor in at least two of the crashes, according to a recent news release.
“With the New Year’s holiday festivities just days away, all motorists are reminded to not to drink and drive,” the release states. “Virginia State Police is among the more than 10,000 police departments and law enforcement agencies participating in the nationwide Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over holiday enforcement crackdown.”
James City County is among the local police departments also participating in the campaign, which emphasizes the importance of planning a safe ride home or designating a sober driver if you plan on drinking while out on New Year’s Eve.
Law enforcement with York County and the City of Williamsburg also encourage citizens to have a plan in place for a safe ride home if they are planning to drink at all on the holiday.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s SaferRide app helps make it easy for intoxicated individuals to get home safely by providing a simple interface from which users can call a taxi, call a friend and determine their precise location for pickup. The app is available for download on both Android and Apple devices.
Drivers and passengers alike are also reminded to use seat belts and avoid speeding and other high-risk driving behaviors. The public is encouraged to report aggressive or impaired drivers to Virginia State Police by dialing #77.
In addition to encouraging citizens to do their part, state and local police will remain on heightened patrol along the Interstate 95 corridor and other major roadways through New Year’s Eve.