Drunk Driving Incidents Increase during Holidays, DOT Launches Campaign
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is cracking down on drunk driving this holiday season. Transportation Secretary, Ray LaHood announced last week that the DOT was instigating the "Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest" campaign. The campaign is aimed at reducing the number of fatal accidents involving intoxicated drivers.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NTHSA) statistics reveal almost 1000 people were killed in auto accidents that involved a drunk or impaired driver (with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher) during December 2009 alone. According to traffic crash statistics, the state of Florida is no exception. In 2009, Florida's traffic fatalities rose during both Christmas and New Years.
Department of Transportation Partners with States
In efforts to curb the hundreds of injuries and fatalities caused by drunk driving, the DOT has partnered with law enforcement authorities all across the country. Florida is implementing a "zero tolerance" enforcement policy, and increasing its police presence on roadways during evenings and peak traveling times.
Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia are launching a "Checkpoint Strikeforce" campaign that encourages drivers to report any drunk or impaired drivers they see on the roads. The Maryland Highway Safety Office, in particular, is handing out promotional materials to retailers and business throughout the state to intensity the awareness regarding the increased accidents and fatalities involving drunk drivers.
In Washington D.C., the Washington Regional Alcohol Program has kicked off. The initiative offers free taxi rides to individuals 21 and over until Jan 1, 2011.
The DOT has allocated $7 million in both television and radio advertising to get out the message. The campaign will run until January 3, 2011.
