AAA is urging everyone who plans to ring in the new year with alcohol, to also prioritize safe driving.
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This holiday season, nearly 20 alcohol-related crashes have occured in Ohio, according to a media release from a spokesperson with AAA. During the 2022 New Year’s Holiday, 56 alcohol or drug related crashes occured in Ohio.
Cannabis, prescription or illicit drugs, and alcohol can decrease your reaction time and judgement while driving, the spokesperson said.
To make it to 2023, AAA suggests taking certain approaches to avoid driving under the influence.
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“Have a plan before you head out,” public affairs manager for AAA, Kara Hitchens, said. “Know where you will stay or how you will get home before you begin the celebration. Later, in the midst of the celebration, you are more likely to minimize the very real effects on driving of alcohol or drug use.”
You can also offer mocktails for those who are the designated drivers to drink at the celebration, the spokesperson said.
If you feel different, you drive different, according to AAA. Make sure that you are fully sober before getting behind the wheel.
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Do not allow your friends to drive under the influence, call them a ride share-service if necessary, the spokesperson said.
Lastly, if you see a drunk driver on the road, report it to the police.
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