New Year’s Roadway Safety

With New Year’s just a few days away, many Georgians are getting ready to bring in 2017 with celebration. Celebrating the New Year can be fun and exciting, but has the potential to be dangerous as well. We urge you to make responsible decisions to ensure the safety of yourself and others this weekend.

Alcohol consumption rates are higher than your average day on December 31 and January 1 each year. During the holiday season, it’s estimated that about 95 million people share roadways across the U.S. The combination of increased drinking and number of vehicles on metro-Atlanta roadways can be a hazardous one. Here are some tips that can help make this New Year’s a more safe and enjoyable time for you and those around you:

• Don’t drink and drive. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports January 1^st as the deadliest day of the year for alcohol-related car accidents each year. Please make the right decision for everyone – do not drink and drive. This applies not only to operating motor vehicles, but also includes bicycling and cycling – even traveling as a pedestrian along roadways while intoxicated can be dangerous. Enjoy the holiday, but do so responsibly.
• Plan for a designated driver. If you’re planning to attend a party where there’s a chance you may consume alcohol while bringing in the New Year, plan accordingly. Have a designed driver assigned or be prepared to take a driving service like Lyft, Uber, or a traditional cab. Doing so will help keep the roads safer for all.
• Be mindful of the weather. As we’ve witnessed throughout December, weather in the South can be extremely unpredictable during winter months. Adjust your driving habits per weather conditions. When necessary, reduce speed and always keep a safe distance between you and other drivers. While you might choose to make the right decision, other drivers may not. Always be conscious of other drivers who may drive irresponsibly, especially on holidays such as New Year’s Eve.

New Year’s is a time of celebration and fresh beginnings. In doing so, it is important to be aware of the safety that comes with the festivities. We at Jones & Swanson wish you and your family a safe and enjoyable New Year!