Keep the Holidays Joyful: Essential Tips for Safe Holiday Driving and MADD’s Safety Campaign

During the festive season, it’s crucial to remember the importance of safe driving, especially during the holidays.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) has long been at the forefront of promoting responsible behavior on the roads — with Law Office of Chain | Cohn | Clark serving as a strong partner — and the “Tie One on for Safety” campaign is a powerful reminder of the need for sober driving.

Let’s explore this campaign and discuss essential tips for staying safe during holiday travel.

MADD’s “Tie One on for Safety” Campaign

MADD’s “Tie One on for Safety” is a holiday campaign that encourages drivers to display red ribbons on their vehicles as a pledge to drive sober and safely. This visual reminder serves as a powerful symbol of commitment to responsible driving and helps raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving during the holiday season.

The campaign’s name is a clever play on words, turning the old euphemism for drinking (“tie one on”) into a positive message about safety. By participating, drivers not only make a personal commitment but also inspire others to do the same.

The holiday season, unfortunately, sees a spike in impaired driving incidents. In December 2021, 1,013 people died in drunk driving traffic crashes in the United States – the highest number since 2007. This tragic statistic underscores the critical need for increased awareness and preventive measures during this time of year. Here are a few tips:

1) Plan Ahead for a Sober Ride: Before attending any holiday gatherings where alcohol might be served, make a plan for getting home safely …

• Designate a sober driver.
• Use ride-sharing services or taxis.
• Utilize public transportation where available.
• If hosting, provide non-alcoholic options and be prepared to offer overnight accommodations.

2) Be a Responsible Host: If you’re hosting a holiday party …

• Offer a variety of non-alcoholic beverages.
• Serve food to slow alcohol absorption.
• Stop serving alcohol well before the party ends.
• Be prepared to take keys from guests who may be impaired.
• Have contact information for local cab companies readily available.

3) Practice Defensive Driving: Even if you’re sober, others on the road may not be. Stay alert and practice defensive driving techniques …

• Maintain a safe following distance.
• Be prepared for sudden stops or erratic behavior from other drivers.
• Use turn signals and be predictable in your driving.
• Avoid distractions like using your phone while driving.

4) Prepare Your Vehicle: Before embarking on any holiday travel …

• Have your car serviced and check fluid levels.
• Ensure your tires are properly inflated and have good tread.
• Pack an emergency kit including jumper cables, flashlight, blankets, and snacks.
• If traveling to colder areas, consider winter tires or chains.

5) Stay Alert and Well-Rested: Fatigue can be as dangerous as impairment. To stay alert …

• Get plenty of sleep before your trip.
• Take regular breaks during long drives.
• Share driving responsibilities on long trips.
• Avoid medications that may cause drowsiness.

6) Be Weather-Wise: Winter weather can create hazardous driving conditions …

• Check weather forecasts before and during your trip.
• Adjust your speed and following distance for road conditions.
• Be prepared for sudden changes in visibility or road surface.
• Consider postponing your trip if severe weather is expected.

7) Secure Your Belongings: During holiday travel, your vehicle may be carrying valuable gifts or luggage …

• Keep valuables out of sight, preferably in the trunk.
• If you must leave items in the car, cover them with a blanket.
• Park in well-lit areas and use anti-theft devices.

8) Use Child Safety Seats Correctly: If traveling with children …

• Ensure car seats and booster seats are appropriate for the child’s age and size.
• Double-check that all safety seats are correctly installed.
• Never place a rear-facing car seat in front of an active airbag.

9) Buckle Up, Every Time: Seat belts save lives. Make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly buckled up for every trip, no matter how short.

10) Stay Informed About Road Conditions: Before and during your trip …

• Check traffic reports and road conditions.
• Have alternative routes planned in case of closures or heavy traffic.
• Use navigation apps that provide real-time traffic updates.

11) Driving Sober: If you suspect a driver is impaired …

• Keep a safe distance from the vehicle.
• Do not attempt to stop the vehicle yourself.
• Note the license plate number and vehicle description.
• Pull over to a safe location and call 911 to report the driver.
• Provide the dispatcher with your location, the vehicle’s description, and direction of travel.

12) The Legal Consequences of Impaired Driving: It’s important to remember that driving under the influence carries severe legal consequences. These can include …

• License suspension or revocation.
• Heavy fines and legal fees.
• Potential jail time.
• Mandatory installation of ignition interlock devices.
• Long-term impacts on employment and insurance rates.

The holidays should be a time of joy and celebration, not tragedy. By participating in MADD’s “Tie One on for Safety” campaign and following these safety tips, we can all contribute to making our roads safer during the holiday season and beyond. Remember, the best gift you can give your loved ones is your safe return home.

At Chain Cohn Clark, we’re committed to promoting safe driving practices and supporting victims of impaired driving crashes. This holiday season, let’s all do our part to ensure everyone can enjoy the festivities safely. Tie a red ribbon on your vehicle, make a commitment to sober driving, and encourage others to do the same. Together, we can make a difference and save lives on our roads.

Stay safe, drive sober, and happy holidays from all of us at Chain Cohn Clark.

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If you or someone you know is injured in an accident at the fault of someone else, or injured on the job no matter whose fault it is, contact the attorneys at Chain | Cohn | Clark by calling (661) 323-4000, or fill out a free consultation form, text, or chat with us at chainlaw.com.