Community Corner

AAA Warns Against DUI on New Year's Eve

The auto club has some sobering statistics for you to think about before drinking and driving.

If you plan to party on New Year’s Eve, AAA has some sobering statistics for you to think about before drinking and driving.

Compared to all other days in 2012, New Year’s Day had the highest percentage of deaths that occurred in crashes with a driver who had a blood-alcohol level of .08 or higher, according to AAA spokesperson Bevi Powell.

AAA statistics show that 122 people were killed in crashes on New Year’s Day 2011, and a little more than half of those crashes involved a drunk driver.

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“If you plan to drink, absolutely don’t drive,” Powell said. “If you plan to drink, make sure to bring a friend who can drive you home.”

She also cautioned against anyone getting into a car with a driver who has been drinking. If you’re hosting a New Year’s Eve party, don’t be afraid to take the keys from a friend or family member who has had too much, she said.

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“If you’re having a get together, make sure to be a responsible host,” she said. “Don’t let anyone get into their vehicles if they’ve been drinking.”

If you’re on the road and see someone who appears to intoxicated, she advises to keep a safe distance and have a passenger call 911 to notify authorities.

If you’re in the Pittsburgh area and need a ride home, you can contact Yellow Cab at 412-321-8100 or Classy Cab at 412-322-5080. Pear Transportation Co. in Pittsburgh also offers group rides and chauffeur services. They can be reached at 412-324-8000.

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