Novi Police Department Reminds Drinkers to 'Choose Your Ride' Wisely

—Submitted by the City of Novi

In a new campaign designed to save lives and prevent injuries on local highways, the Novi Police Department has teamed up with local community organizations and businesses to emphasize proper decision making through the “Choose Your Ride” program.

“Motorists who drive while under the influence represent a significant danger – not only too themselves, but everyone on the roadway,” said Novi Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police David Molloy. “Ninety percent of all drunk driving happens after drinking with family, friends, and coworkers; there is always somebody around who could be part of a healthy solution. While we want everyone to enjoy what our community has to offer, we encourage them to do it in a responsible way. If you have consumed alcohol, ‘Choose Your Ride’ wisely- seek a ride with your designated driver or call for a safe way home.”

Not only does the “Choose Your Ride’ program highlight the safety risks for both the driver and others, it also the shares the cost of being arrested for drunk driving including jail time and more than $10,000 in total fines and costs. In Novi, posters encouraging people to find an alternate way home are being placed in local establishments that serve or sell alcoholic beverages. A special police car, designed specifically to promote the program, will serve as a visual reminder of the risks of drunk driving.

In 2011, 409 arrests were made in Novi for driving under the influence, which was the sixth highest total in Michigan. Oakland County saw 1,069 alcohol related traffic crashes and 21 fatalities in 2011, well above the state-wide average of 119 crashes and three fatalities.

The “Choose Your Ride” program kicked off in late September and Novi is one of only a few communities throughout the country to promote this initiative. The “Choose Your Ride” program is a compliment to other Novi anti-drug initiatives in place, including “Addicted to Movies…not Drugs” and Project Sticker Shock.

To learn more about the Novi Police Department and prevention programs, visit
cityofnovi.org.