For Immediate Release:
Dec. 20, 2018

Contact:
Tim Weisberg
OTS Marketing and Public Affairs
timothy.weisberg@ots.ca.gov
(916) 509-3020

The OTS encourages everyone to celebrate Christmas,
New Year’s holidays responsibly

 

The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) wants to remind everyone spending time with friends and family this holiday season to make smart choices when on the go.

Many people will be hosting or attending holiday and New Year’s parties where alcohol may be served, which affects one’s ability to drive safely.

Alcohol-related crashes that result in injuries and deaths continues to be a problem around the holidays, and in recent years, drug-involved crashes. That is why law enforcement agencies across the state will be increasing patrols from now until New Year’s, searching for and arresting those suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

“If you have to ask yourself whether you are okay to drive, the answer is probably no,” OTS Director Rhonda Craft said. “Those who make the poor choice to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be held accountable. Be responsible and find a sober ride home.”

As part of Impaired Driving Prevention Month, the OTS rolled out a new public awareness campaign – “Go Safely, California” – to educate drivers on the variety of options available to them to get home safely, especially after drinking or using drugs that are known to impair.

Drugs that may be impairing include marijuana, sleep aids, pain killers, anti-depressants, muscle relaxants, stimulants and many more over-the-counter, legally prescribed or illegal drugs.

During the holiday season, anti-DUI efforts will be geared toward alternatives to driving impaired, such as calling a sober friend, scheduling a ride service or taking a cab. Hosting a party? Monitor those who are drinking and be sure they have a safe way to get home. Don’t let
anyone who is impaired drive home. Make non-alcoholic drinks available for designated sober drivers. If you plan to drink, plan not to drive and leave the keys at home.

To promote safe ways to get from point A to point B, OTS has partnered with the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) and Lyft to offer $10 Lyft credits in the San Francisco and Sacramento coverage areas from now through Jan. 1, 2019.

Details, availability and restrictions are outlined in the Lyft app. The anti-DUI promotion is also highlighted on the “Go Safely, California” Facebook and Twitter pages.

To learn more about the “Go Safely, California” campaign, visit www.gosafelyca.org.


 

 

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