As the holiday season nears, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office is urging drivers to make safe choices by planning ahead for sober transportation. The department recommends using a designated driver, public transit, or rideshare services to avoid impaired driving.
According to Deputy Adrian Martinez, “Our priority is keeping the community safe this holiday season. If you’re heading out to celebrate, don’t risk it. Plan ahead for a safe drive with a designated driver or by arranging alternative transportation.”
National data shows that about 34 people die each day in drunk-driving crashes across the United States, which averages to one death every 42 minutes. The issue becomes more pronounced during the holidays. Between December 2019 and December 2023, there were 4,931 deaths in alcohol-impaired crashes nationwide, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In California alone, 1,355 people died in such incidents in 2023.
The Sheriff’s Office also notes that impairment can result from more than just alcohol consumption. Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, cannabis products and other substances may affect a person’s ability to drive safely. Drivers are advised not to operate vehicles if they have consumed anything that could impair their abilities and should let someone sober take the wheel instead.
The department encourages anyone who observes suspected impaired driving to call 9-1-1.
For those interested in joining the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, information is available at joinrso.org or by calling 1-888-Join-RSD.
