Happy Holidays from The Law Office of Thomas G. Buchanan. During this time of celebration and sharing, wishes for safe travel and happy holidays go out to those we have had the pleasure to work for this year. Spending time with family means travel for most of us. Those who will be driving should take extra care during the holiday season. Whether you are going across town or across the state, safe driving can help protect you and your family from car accidents.
According to the latest National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) statistics in Arkansas, of the 585 people killed during 2009, 168 people (29%) were killed in crashes involving drunk drivers. Drunk driving or driving while intoxicated means that you have a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.08 and you are driving illegally. The “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign is a 17 day effort designed to reduce the incidents of drunk driving on city streets, county roads and state highways this holiday season. It is sponsored by the NHTSA and began December 16 and will continue through January 2, 2012. Be prepared for sobriety checkpoints and an increase in police presence as you travel. If you plan on drinking, appoint someone beforehand to be a designated driver.
The best way to avoid getting pulled over or having to face fines or imprisonment is to avoid drinking and driving. Most importantly consider your safety and the safety of others. Enjoy the holidays and begin the new year with health and happiness.