RivCo Authorities Urge Against Drunk Driving This Holiday Season

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — With the holiday season approaching, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to plan ahead and avoid getting behind the wheel while impaired.

Officials stressed the importance of using a designated driver, public transit, or a taxi or rideshare service to ensure safe travel during one of the most dangerous times of the year for roadway fatalities.

“Our priority is keeping the community safe this holiday season,” Deputy Jason Slover said. “If you’re heading out to celebrate, don’t risk it. Plan ahead for a safe drive with a designated driver or by arranging alternative transportation.”

Drunk driving remains a leading cause of deadly crashes in the U.S., the department said.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 34 people nationwide are killed daily in drunk-driving collisions — roughly one death every 42 minutes. Between 2019 and 2023, 4,931 people were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes during December alone. In California, 1,355 people died in alcohol-related crashes in 2023.

The Sheriff’s Office also cautioned that impairment is not limited to alcohol. Prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, cannabis and other substances can slow reaction time and impair judgment. Anyone planning to drink or use medications that carry driving warnings is urged to arrange a sober ride. Officials also encouraged residents to call 911 if they see a driver who appears impaired.

Funding for the holiday enforcement and education efforts is provided by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.