MADD Colorado Links with Colorado State Patrol to Prevent Drunk Driving

As we approach the holiday season, a time when people may be celebrating at events where alcohol is served, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Colorado and the Colorado State Patrol urge adults to plan ahead for a non-drinking designated driver, especially since drunk driving deaths typically spike over the holidays.

In fact, between Thanksgiving and New Year's Eve in 2011, 931 people were killed in drunk driving crashes nationwide, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

According to a release, MADD's Tie One On For Safety red ribbon campaign, now in its 27th year, is the organization's signature public awareness program and is sponsored by National Presenting Sponsor Nationwide Insurance. Drivers across the country display MADD red ribbons on their vehicles as a reminder to plan ahead and designate a non-drinking driver. The campaign is sponsored in Colorado by the law firm of Bell & Pollock, MADD Colorado's Victim Services sponsor.

"MADD Colorado knows that it takes more than just a few people making safe choices, so we urge Colorado residents to lead by example and spread the message of planning ahead for a designated non-drinking driver," said Fran Lanzer, State Executive Director for MADD Colorado. "We're honored to join with the Colorado State Patrol and the law firm of Bell & Pollock to Tie One On For Safety and help make our communities safer during the holiday season and year- round."

The red ribbons also signify support for law enforcement officers, who will be out in force as part of the national "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign. MADD's Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving includes support for these types of high-visibility law enforcement efforts, along with support for requiring ignition interlocks for all convicted drunk drivers, and for research into technology that could prevent a drunk driver from operating the vehicle.

State Troopers will be working around the clock to educate Coloradoans on the importance of making good decisions while driving during the holidays. "Some of the most critical decisions for drivers actually occur before the party begins," said Colonel Scott Hernandez, Chief of the Colorado State Patrol. "Individuals need to understand that when they are chosen as a non-drinking driver, family and friends trust them with their lives. How much more personal does it get?"

The Colorado State Patrol will be utilizing saturation patrol methods to place more resources on state roadways to combat impaired driving. "If you are driving drunk, we will find you," said Chief Hernandez.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is a nonprofit working to protect families from drunk driving and underage drinking.

More Information:

www.madd.org

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