The California Highway Patrol, Golden Gate Division would like to take the opportunity to wish you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving. The holiday season brings joy and happiness as we celebrate with friends with family, but also brings tragedy with an uptick in fatal and injury collisions.
As you celebrate the long weekend, please remember to always designate a non-drinking driver before you arrive at your destination. In 2012, 33 people were killed in collisions across California, and over 88 percent of those killed were not wearing their seat belt. CHP officers arrested over 1,200 DUI drivers throughout the state as well.
In the Bay Area alone, CHP officers apprehended 186 DUI drivers, and had to investigate four fatal collisions.
Drugged driving is also a major concern as we enter into the holiday season. Most people only think about “hard” drugs when they consider the dangers of drugged driving. In reality, any substance that impairs your perception and reaction times can lead to tragic results. Even prescription medications can impair your ability to drive, especially when mixed with alcohol. In fact, some prescription medications can cause a person to be as impaired as someone double the legal limit, even after only consuming one alcoholic beverage. Make this weekend one you can be thankful for.
“Make this a memorable holiday weekend by keeping your family and friends safe,” said Chief Avery Browne of Golden Gate Division. “Be sure they have a sober driver to get them home and remind them to buckle up upon their departure. A Thanksgiving weekend free of fatal collisions is something for which we can all be thankful.”
As you gear up to travel to your Thanksgiving destinations, please consider the following tips:
- Check your vehicle before your trip.
- Ensure you have enough gas, windshield washer fluid, and that your vehicle is in good working order.
- Check your tires for sufficient tread depth, and look for damage or excessive wear.
- Pack extra water and warm clothing in case your vehicle is disabled and you become stranded.
- Wear your seat belt! Every time before every ride.
- Expect longer travel times. Plan ahead, and stop frequently during long road trips.
- Avoid distractions! A second of inattention can lead to a lifetime of consequences.
- Drive safely. Aggressive driving and speeding will only save a few minutes, at the risk of major injury or death.
Lastly, “Black Friday” brings up another danger: Drowsy driving. Sleepiness and driving is a dangerous combination, and can be just as fatal as impaired driving. Sleepiness slows reaction time, decreases awareness, impairs judgment, and increases your risk of crashing. If you are drowsy, pull over to a safe location, take a quick 15-20 minute nap, then drive directly to a place where you can get a full night’s sleep.
Drive safely, drive sober, and call “911” if you see a suspected DUI driver.
