In their efforts to reduce drinking and driving, the Texas Department of Transportation is reminding Texans that having a sober ride home may be the most important part of their New Year's celebrations. TxDOT's Holiday P.A.S.S. (Person Appointed to Stay Sober) campaign has spent the month of December encouraging Texans to always take a sober ride home.
"New Year's Eve is a festive occasion, but no one wants to begin their new year with a DWI. Instead, we are encouraging Texans to plan ahead for a sober ride home before attending New Year's Eve parties," said John Barton, TxDOT deputy executive director.
During last year's holiday season (Dec. 1, 2011, through Jan. 1, 2012) there were 2,462 alcohol-related traffic crashes in Texas, resulting in 842 serious injuries and 78 fatalities (TxDOT, 2012). This holiday season, law enforcement officers throughout the state will work thousands of additional hours to crack down on drunk driving. Many cities and towns in Texas will implement "no refusal" programs over the New Year holiday period.
During the month of December, the Texas Hospitality Association has assisted TxDOT in spreading the important message about having your Holiday P.A.S.S. The association distributed customizable sober driver "gift certificates" and other materials in stores across the state where alcohol is sold. Additionally, award-winning mixologist, Rob Pate, owner of restaurants Peche and Cherry Street in Austin, created four signature non-alcoholic drinks that will be perfect for New Year's Eve parties.
For tips on planning for sober rides home after New Year's Eve celebrations, visit the Holiday P.A.S.S. Facebook page or the Pinterest page . You will also find recipes for our original non-alcoholic drinks there.
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Source: Herald Online (TxDOT, 12/27)
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