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TxDOT Paris District Urges Drivers to Get a P.A.S.S.
Article By: by
Texas Department of Transportation
Posted: 11/14/2012 Views: 2122 Impressions: 7620
Categories: Entertainment: Travel, Government: State
Posted: 11/14/2012 Views: 2122 Impressions: 7620
Categories: Entertainment: Travel, Government: State
Campaign increases awareness for drinking and driving concerns.
Thanksgiving is the beginning of the holiday season, a time for being thankful, for family, food, fun and football. But it also brings many alcohol-related crash fatalities.
Because of this, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is launching its drinking and driving outreach program to encourage Texas drivers to designate a Person Appointed to Stay Sober (P.A.S.S.) before enjoying those drinks.
"At TxDOT, we are increasing our awareness and concern for the safety of the public on our highway system. We want everyone to arrive at their destination safely," said Bobby Littlefield, TxDOT Paris District Engineer.
"While it's always fun to celebrate during the holidays, please don't let yourself or others drive after drinking. Be sure to include a P.A.S.S. for those events where you plan on drinking," he added.
Drinking and driving continues to be a national and statewide problem. In 2011, there were 24,151 DUI alcohol-related crashes in Texas resulting in 1,038 deaths and 15,960 injuries.
All 50 states have made it illegal to drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher. But many people, especially young adults, continue to drink and drive. In fatal crashes, the highest percentage of drivers with a BAC level of .08 or higher was for drivers, ages 21 to 24 (35 percent), followed by ages 25 to 34 (32 percent).
"If you make the choice to impair yourself, that choice should never include getting behind the wheel of a vehicle. Make the safe choice, P.A.S.S. the keys........it just might save your life and the lives of others," echoed Traffic Safety Specialist Patsy Walls.
In many areas there are non-profit, non-judgmental designated driver programs that will pick you up after a night of celebration and take you home, no questions asked. Vicki Ballard of Dylan's Drivers states, "Drinking and driving affects more than just the driver, so please, if you drink please choose a designated driver." Search for such agencies in your town if you fail to get a P.A.S.S. In Paris, you can call Dylan's Drivers at 903-905-4959 to take advantage of a safe ride home from those holiday parties.
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