Halloween is a beloved holiday tradition in America with millions of people, young and old, working to wear their best costumes and gearing up for a night of candy and festivities. The evening often comes with parties and get-togethers, as well as an increase in drunk drivers on the roads. To help spread the message that Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is teaming up with Georgia Governors Office of Highway Safety (GOHS) and the Sandersville Police Department (SPD) to remind everyone of the dangers of drunk driving. Drivers should be extra cautious on and in the days surrounding Halloween, as more pedestrians are out at night on the hunt for candy. If a night involves alcohol, plan for a sober ride home. Remember, it is never safe to drink and drive.
“Even though Halloween is on a Sunday this year, we’re certain to see extra parties throughout the weekend, and every single party-goer should plan their sober ride home in advance,” said Captain Kelly Collins of the Sandersville Police Department. “Even one drink can impair judgement. You should never put yourself, or others, at risk because you made the choice to drink and drive. Even one drink is one too many.”
Tragically, 9 percent more alcohol involved fatalities occurred in 2020 than 2019. Do not contribute to these senseless deaths by driving drunk this Halloween. Drivers should also keep an eye out for pedestrians – whether they are children trick-or-treating or adults who have had too much to drink. Walking while intoxicated can be deadly, as lack of attention to surroundings could put pedestrians at risk of getting hit by a vehicle.
“We want our community to have a fun night out on Halloween, but to also stay safe and make responsible choices,” said Capt. Collins. “In today’s world, there are many options available to drivers to help them get home safely if they’ve been drinking. We expect drivers to refrain from driving after drinking.”
Nationally, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 percent or higher, and the cost of doing so can be financially detrimental. If one is caught drinking and driving, they could face jail time, lose their driver’s license and vehicle, and pay up to $10,000 in attorney’s fees, fines, car towing, higher insurance rates, and lost wages.
If one plans to head out for a night of Halloween partying, follow these simple tips for a safe and happy evening:
– Remember that it is never okay to drink and drive. Even after only one alcoholic beverage, designate a sober driver to safely get home.
– See a drunk driver on the road? Contact the Sandersville Police’s Dispatch at 552-3038.
– Have a friend who is about to drink and drive? Take the keys away and make arrangements to get them safely home.
Always remember: Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.
