Holiday Drinking & Driving Don’t Mix

InsureMe Helps Drivers Plan Ahead This Holiday Season

DENVER (PRWEB) December 9, 2005 -- The holiday season is a time for family gatherings, office parties and merrymaking. But it’s also one of the deadliest and most dangerous times of the year, due to an increased occurrence of drunken driving.

During the period between Thanksgiving and Christmas, more alcohol-impaired drivers get behind the wheel than at any other time of year. And because many motorists don’t realize that just one drink can impair their judgment and motor skills, they risk lives and make driving conditions dangerous for everyone.

The fact is, drunken driving kills—especially during the holidays. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 1210 people were killed across the U.S. during December 2004 in alcohol-related crashes.

But there is a simple solution to reduce the drunken-driving mayhem on the road this time of year: planning ahead.

InsureMe, the leading consumer-agent link for buying insurance online, recommends taking these extra precautions if you know you’ll be absorbing some holiday cheer this year:

•    Designate a non-drinking driver beforehand, if possible.

•    Plan to give the host your car keys to reduce the likelihood you’ll drive under the influence.

•    If you don’t have a designated driver, arrange for a sober friend or family member to pick you up—or call for a taxi.

•    Check with your state department of transportation, city transit system, or local church or university about alternative transportation provided to the public free of charge during the holiday season.

•    If you can’t find a ride ahead of time, don’t panic. If all else fails, arrange to spend the night at your host’s home. Most will understand, and would rather you camp on their couch or floor than take unnecessary chances.

Impaired driving is serious business. So if you’re planning to imbibe this holiday season, don’t risk your life and the lives of others. Instead, make a plan—before you get behind the wheel—and stick with it.

About InsureMe

InsureMe, an Englewood, Colorado-based company, links agents nationwide with consumers shopping for insurance. Specializing in auto, home, life, long-term care and health insurance quotes, the InsureMe network provides thousands of agents with insurance leads every year. For more information, visit www.InsureMe.com.

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