Published: December 23, 2008 09:35 pm      

Safe, smart driving urged this holiday season

With an increased number of travelers on the road, as well as those celebrating the Christmas and New Year holidays, Beckley Police Sgt. Paul Blume, coordinator of the Southern Regional Highway Safety Program, is reminding area residents of the importance of safe, smart driving.

Throughout December, Blume said, the Beckley Police Department, as well as agencies throughout the region, have had an increased number of patrols on the roadways.

Those patrols will remain active through the remainder of 2008 and the first few days of 2009 as officers crack down on impaired drivers.

According to information released by the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration, between 2002 and 2006 nearly four of every 10 fatal accidents during the last two weeks of December were alcohol-related.

“Drunk driving is one of the most serious, and preventable, dangers we face on our roadways,” NHTSA acting administrator David Kelly said.

“Sadly, the death toll from drunk-driving crashes is higher between Christmas and New Year’s than any other time,” Kelly commented.

The increased local patrols, as well as DUI checkpoints, which are sponsored by the Governor’s Highway Safety Program, go along with NHTSA’s “Drunk Driving, Over the Limit, Under Arrest” campaign.

“Our law enforcement officers are giving up their holiday time with their families to protect us all from drunk drivers,” Kelly said. “Make no mistake about it, violators will get a free ride to jail. So before you go out to celebrate, be responsible and designate a sober driver.”

Two drunk drivers, Blume said, have been arrested as the result of two separate DUI checkpoints in December.

“Apparently, even though we’re putting the message out, people are still taking chances and getting out on the roadways (impaired),” he said.

Blume said those who might drink should plan ahead, securing a designated driver.

“If you’re going to be out drinking, make sure the designated driver is there in advance,” he said.

— E-mail: mjames@register-herald.com