Don’t Drink and Drive

The warnings are out there.  The police are upping their patrols over the next couple of days. From yesterday’s Minnesota Star Tribune:

From 2017 through 2023, Jan. 1 has netted almost 11% more drunken driving arrests across Minnesota than the second-busiest holiday, Independence Day, according to data from the state Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

By combining the pre- and post-midnight Near Year’s celebrations on Dec. 31 and Jan. 1, those two days racked up nearly 1,500 arrests in that seven-year period — 62% higher than July 4.

Every year, offi cers step up enforcement from Thanksgiving through the end of the year and hammer home public messaging about staying safe on the road. This year is no different.

This time of year is filled with family , presents and Merriment.   At the same time , there can be increased emotional , financial,  and societal stress. There can be that bad decision made because of a couple extra drinks.

Think ahead.   Make plans for a designated driver, put your keys away , and park the car.   Start off with a rideshare so there isn’t a choice at the end of the night.

Lets end and start the year with less Dui’s.  Don’t be one more number.