Anti-Drunk Driving Campaign In Livingston: ‘Tie One On For Safety’

LIVINGSTON, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of the Township of Livingston. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

Livingston Health Department Health Educator Jessica Kelly and Livingston Police Officer Joy Klapal recently distributed MADD ribbons at the Livingston Public Library as part of the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) “Tie One On For Safety” campaign.

The Tie One On For Safety campaign began in 1986 to promote safe driving during the holiday season. From November 1 through January 1, the number of drunk-driving-related motor vehicle accidents tends to be higher. The campaign asks drivers to tie a red ribbon in a visible location to their vehicle or on their car keys during the holiday season as a reminder to never drink and drive.

While the blood alcohol concentration of a drunk driver is considered to be 0.08 g/dl, even a smaller amount of blood alcohol concentration can affect judgement and vision, and can reduce coordination. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drunk driving killed one person every 39 minutes in the United States in 2022. Additionally, drinking and driving caused about 388,000 injuries in 2021, according to MADD.

Consequences of drunk driving can include fines, legal expenses, driver’s license revocation, and jail time. Most importantly, your chances of crashing increase when you drive drunk, putting your safety and the safety of others in danger.

If you are planning to drink, designate someone in the group as a non-drinking driver, contact someone who has not been drinking to take you home, or utilize public transportation such as Uber, Lyft, or a taxi service. If someone you are with has been drinking, do not let them drive, and help them find a safe way of getting home. If you are hosting a party where alcoholic beverages are served, make sure your guests have a safe way of getting home. Additionally, whether you are a driver or a passenger, always wear a seat belt and remind others to do so.

For more information about MADD, visit madd.org or call 877-ASK-MADD (877-275-6233).

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