’Tis the season for parties, family gatherings, and office celebrations, but it’s also a time when the roads get more dangerous. The most recent federal data shows impaired driving remains one of the leading causes of holiday-season fatalities. In December alone, well over a thousand people lose their lives in alcohol-related crashes nationwide according to the NHTSA, making it one of the deadliest months of the year. Even though there was a small decrease in impaired-driving fatalities last year, the overall number remains far too high, and the holidays tend to bring out the worst mix you can imagine: extra traffic, late nights, winter weather, and drivers who shouldn’t be behind the wheel.
The good news is that a little planning can go a long way toward keeping your celebration from taking a dangerous turn. Whether you’re hosting, visiting, or simply sharing the road, there are simple things everyone can do to make sure the holidays stay joyful all the way through the drive home.
Before the party begins, it helps to plan with safety in mind. Encourage your guests or friends to pick a designated driver early, before the first drink gets poured. A simple conversation at the start of the night is far easier than trying to take someone’s keys later. If you’re hosting, put out plenty of food and non-alcoholic drinks. People who snack throughout the evening and have something besides alcohol to choose from tend to drink less and drink more slowly. It also helps if you stop serving alcohol at least an hour before folks head out. That cool-down window gives everyone time to regroup and make better decisions.
Keep an eye on those who might be over the limit. You don’t have to embarrass anyone or turn the night into a lecture, but quietly checking in can prevent a very bad outcome. If someone is unfit to drive, step in, take the keys, and arrange a safer ride home. Having a plan for taxis, ride-share services, or even a spare bedroom can make that conversation easier. Sometimes all a person needs is a little nudge to do the right thing.
Even if you’re not the host, you can make a difference. If you know someone has been drinking, don’t hesitate to speak up. Offer a ride, call a service, or help them arrange another way home. It’s uncomfortable for about thirty seconds, but the alternative can be life-changing. Too many tragedies begin with friends who thought someone “seemed okay to drive.”
And once you’re on the road, it’s important to remember the hazards don’t end with your own good judgment. Holiday driving often involves late nights, fatigue, slick pavement, and drivers who may not be operating at full capacity. Before you head out, make sure you’re rested, alert, and ready for the conditions. Check your lights, tires, and wipers, especially if winter weather is in the forecast. Buckle up every time, don’t let distractions take your attention away from the road, and give yourself extra space in traffic. Defensive driving isn’t just a suggestion during the holidays — it’s a necessity.
Above all, remember that arriving home safely is the greatest gift you can give the people who care about you. Holiday celebrations are meant to create warm memories, not painful ones. A few smart choices can prevent a fun evening from turning into something no one will forget for the wrong reasons.
Enjoy the season, celebrate responsibly, look out for one another, and keep the roads safe. The holidays are a lot brighter when everyone makes it home.
Photo: NHTSA.