Staff reports 8:32 a.m.
Thursday, November 28, 2024 8:29 am

Don't let a Thanksgiving treasure turn into a Thanksgiving Tragedy

If you're feeling comfortably numb you should call it quits and be comfortably done. Get somone else to drive you home (Courtesy photo)

The Thanksgiving period begins the night before the holiday, which is often reserved for meeting up with old friends -- and may involve drinking. In 2022, 100 drivers were involved in fatal traffic crashes on Thanksgiving Eve -- 35% of those drivers were drunk.

Thanksgiving usually means spending quality time with loved ones, feeling grateful and, of course, food and drinks. From 2018-2022, 833 people were killed in drunk driving crashes during the Thanksgiving holiday. This year, before you get behind the wheel, remember that even a small amount of alcohol can affect a person quickly.
If You Feel Different, You Drive Different

Drugs can affect a person's ability to drive safely. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) -- the chemical responsible for most of marijuana's psychoactive effects -- can impact how a person drives. THC slows reaction time, impairs cognitive performance, and makes it more difficult for drivers to stay in their lane.

By driving sober, buckling up every time, and making sure your passengers do the same, you can help ensure that you and your loved ones arrive to your holiday destination safe and sound.

Tips to Get Home Safely

Make a plan: Schedule a rideshare in advance or call a taxi.
Have a sober friend pick you up.
Use public transportation.
If you see a friend who is about to drink and drive, take their keys and let a sober driver get them home safely.
See more tips to get home safely.

Tips for Hosts

Be responsible and take action to make sure guests get home safely.
Prepare to call taxis or rideshares, provide sleeping accommodations, or -- if you're sober -- drive guests home yourself.
Collect car keys from guests who are drinking.
Provide non-alcoholic beverage options.