This Independence Day, the Sandersville Police Department, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety want to remind drivers that “Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.” No matter how celebrations may look this year, make sure to commemorate the birth of our nation safely. If an individual is under the influence of alcohol and chooses to get behind the wheel of a vehicle, they put everyone on the road in danger. During the Fourth of July holiday, make sure to plan ahead for a safe weekend of festivities.
According to the NHTSA, 9% more alcohol involved fatalities occurred in 2020 than in 2019. With Fourth of July festivities most likely wrapping up late in the evening, more cars will be on the roads at night. The Georgia Department of Public Safety says that 16 fatalities occurred in 2020 over the 54-hour holiday period. 241 traffic crashes resulted in 152 injuries, while 332 people were arrested for driving under the influence.
“We want our community to have a happy and safe Independence Day, one that they’ll remember for years to come, for all the right reasons,” said Captain Kelly Collins of the Sandersville Police Department. “We’ve partnered with NHTSA and GOHS to help remind drivers that “Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.” Under no circumstance is it ever okay to drink and drive. This behavior is illegal, it’s deadly, and it’s selfish.”
Remember these tips for a safe night on the roads:
– It is never okay to drink and drive. Even after only one alcoholic beverage, designate a sober driver to get home safely.
– See a drunk driver on the road? Contact Sandersville Police at 552-3038.
– Have a friend who is about to drink and drive? Take away their keys and make arrangements to get them home safely.
This Fourth of July, commit to driving 100-percent sober, because “Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.”