Government Extra Wary of Drunken Driving During Holidays

12/11/2009

Law enforcement and government officials are constantly trying to reduce the number of drunken drivers on the road because of the public safety hazards they pose, as well as other issues involving property damage and auto insurance costs.

Still, the problem of impaired driving takes on an even greater urgency during the holiday season. This is because a larger number of drivers tend to be on the road in the first place on holidays like Christmas, many of whom are returning from holiday gatherings.

Other major holidays that typically see an increase in drunken driving incidents include Thanksgiving, Independence Day and Labor Day.

"Many states continue to step up their efforts to get drunk drivers off our roads, but the numbers tell us we have to do more. Drinking and driving is dangerous and unacceptable, and I’m asking law enforcement to stay vigilant during this busy holiday season," said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood as he announced a public information campaign that will air on television and radio stations from mid-December to early January.

The government also singled out Vermont, Wisconsin, Maine, Nebraska and Minnesota for making the most progress against alcohol-related road fatalities, while noting that Idaho, Rhode Island, Wyoming, Kansas and New Hampshire had made the least progress in this area.

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