Hernandez Highlights Impaired Driving Awareness Month

AURORA, Ill. – Continuing her advocacy for public safety, state Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, is highlighting the importance of safe, sober driving this holiday season in recognition of Impaired Driving Awareness Month this December.

“With all of the holiday festivities happening, it is critical for folks to take precaution and make sure that no one is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol,” said Hernandez. “Too often, people think they are ‘fine’ to drive home after a night of drinking, and the results can be detrimental. I encourage all residents to ensure they have a designated driver or are able to utilize public transportation or ride-sharing services.”

December has been Impaired Driving Awareness Month for nearly 4 decades as an effort to eliminate the arrests, accidents and deaths that result from driving while intoxicated. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), last year alone there were 10,511 people killed nationwide in impaired driving related incidents. With road conditions already worsened by weather and increased traffic from holiday festivities, December has the highest amount of impaired driving incidents each year.

In order to eliminate the number of accidents, the NHTSA encourages designating a non-drinking driver ahead of time, allowing at least one hour in between each drink, consuming a glass of water or food in between each drink and never getting in a vehicle with someone who has been drinking. For more information and more driving safety tips, please visit the NHTSA website at https://www.nhtsa.gov/ways-get-home-safely.

“Drunk driving related deaths are 100% preventable, and it is inexcusable to drive while impaired with the availability of ride-sharing apps,” said Hernandez. “No drink is ever worth your life or the life of someone you love, so please remember to use these preventative measures to make our roads are safer this holiday season.”

For more information, please contact Hernandez’s constituent services office at 630-270-1848 or email RepBarbaraHernandez@gmail.com.