Drive sober or get pulled over this NYE weekend
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(ABC 6 News) – This year is coming to a close and people all over the world are joining in on the New Year’s Eve celebrations, but one bad decision and these good times can turn deadly.
In the last five years, there were 620 drunk driving-related deaths in Minnesota alone. According to the Minnesota State Patrol, it is not just alcohol that is making the roads dangerous, it is also drugged driving. Drugged driving accounted for 6,941 DWI incidents from 2012-2016 compared with 15,747 from 2017-2021 – a 227% increase.
The weeks between the day before Thanksgiving through Dec. 31 are some of the most dangerous times to be on the roads. Over the last five years, there were more than 12,000 DWI’s between these holiday months, and this year it may be even worse.
“This year we’ve seen an increase in DWI and drugged driving compared to last year. It’s a significant increase,” explained Sgt. Troy Christianson with the MSP.
This weekend, law enforcement will have extra troopers monitoring the roads and keeping them clear of impaired drivers.
This year is coming to a close and people all over the world are joining in on the New Year's Eve celebrations, but one bad decision and these good times can turn deadly.
“We just need to make sure people are aware of the dangers. If they do consume any alcohol or drugs, they are aware of the consequences,” added Sgt. Christianson. “You’re not only jeopardizing your life, but everyone else on the roadways as well.”
Instead of getting behind the wheel, find a sober ride: family members, friends, cabs, or rideshare companies can all be good options.
One rideshare company in Rochester, ‘Double D’s Designated Drivers’, says this is their busiest time of year. Companies like this will get you and your car home safely.
“It’s hectic and insane. We will have cars ready to go by about 5 o’clock [on New Year’s Eve],” explained DD’s owner, Darlene Krebs.
A similar service is Safe Ridez.
“It’s time for family and friends, it’s time for celebrations, but it’s also time to think about those you’re gonna be around and lets be safe and lets make a plan,” said Peter Bartz, the owner and operator of Safe Ridez.
More information on how to schedule a ride this weekend, or any weekend, is below.
507-990-9097