CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR RESPONSIBLY

As people across the country gear up to ring in the New Year, the Sheriff, and Sheriff’s Office are urging everyone to prioritize responsible drinking and safe transportation. New Year’s Eve is one of the most dangerous nights of the year for drunk driving accidents, with a significant spike in DUI arrests and alcohol-related crashes. However, with proper planning and the use of available resources, these risks can be mitigated.
 
Driving under the influence (DUI) poses serious risks not only to the impaired driver but also to passengers, pedestrians, and other road users. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drunk driving accidents account for nearly a third of all traffic fatalities during the holiday season. On New Year’s Eve, the combination of late-night celebrations and alcohol consumption makes roadways particularly hazardous. Law enforcement agencies often increase patrols during this time to deter impaired driving. A DUI conviction can lead to hefty fines, license suspension, mandatory classes, and even jail time, not to mention the emotional and financial toll of causing an accident.
 
The good news is that there are many ways to ensure a safe ride home without risking a DUI. Here are some tips to consider as you plan your New Year’s Eve celebration:
1. Use Ridesharing Services
Apps like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient and affordable way to get home safely. On New Year’s Eve, ridesharing services often experience higher demand, so it’s a good idea to book your ride early or use the “schedule ride” feature to ensure availability. Be prepared for surge pricing during peak hours, but remember that the cost is far less than a DUI or accident.
2. Designate a Sober Driver
If you’re celebrating with friends, appoint someone in your group to stay sober and handle driving duties. A designated driver ensures everyone can enjoy the night without worrying about getting home safely.
3. Take Advantage of Local Safe Ride Programs
Some communities and organizations sponsor “safe ride” programs, providing free or discounted rides to prevent drunk driving. These services are often funded by local governments or nonprofits, so look for initiatives in your area.
4. Stay Over or Book a Hotel
If you’re celebrating far from home, consider staying overnight with a friend or booking a hotel room nearby. Avoiding the road altogether is one of the safest choices you can make.

Here are some Jasper hotels, and addresses.
Sleep Inn & Suites Jasper I-22 (90 Carl Cannon Blvd, Jasper, AL 35501)
Comfort Inn & Suites (202 Oakhill Rd, Jasper, AL 35504)
SureStay Hotel by Best Western Jasper (200 The Mall Way, Jasper, AL 35504)
Econo Lodge (101 6th Ave NW, Jasper, AL 35504)

If you’re hosting a New Year’s Eve party, you can play a role in preventing drunk driving:

• Offer plenty of non-alcoholic beverages.
• Stop serving alcohol at least an hour before the party ends.
• Encourage guests to arrange rides home or stay overnight if needed.

Each year, drunk driving accounts for nearly one-third of all traffic-related deaths in the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In 2022 alone, over 11,000 people died in alcohol-impaired crashes—a statistic that underscores the enduring prevalence of this preventable tragedy. These fatalities represent not just numbers but real people: mothers, fathers, siblings, children, and friends whose lives were lost or irrevocably altered. Beyond the deaths, millions more are injured in alcohol-related crashes annually, often suffering life-changing consequences such as permanent disabilities, chronic pain, or emotional trauma. Additionally, the economic toll of impaired driving is staggering. A 2020 report estimated that DUI incidents cost the United States over $44 billion each year, encompassing healthcare expenses, lost productivity, legal proceedings, and property damage.
 
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs essential skills required for safe driving. Alcohol, for instance, affects judgment, coordination, reaction times, and the ability to concentrate—all of which are critical to operating a vehicle safely. Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is the standard measure used to determine impairment. In most states, a BAC of 0.08% is considered legally intoxicated, though impairment begins well before reaching this threshold. Drugs, both prescription and illegal, compound the problem. Substances such as marijuana, opioids, and stimulants impair judgment and motor function, sometimes to an even greater extent than alcohol. The Walker County Sheriff’s Office will be conducting public safety checkpoints throughout the county on 12/31/24, to 1/4/24. The hours will be from 6pm, until 6am, nightly. Drivers should have their license ready for inspection. The growing prevalence of poly-drug use—combining alcohol with drugs—has created additional challenges for law enforcement and public health officials.
 
The consequences of a DUI conviction extend far beyond the immediate inconvenience of an arrest. In most jurisdictions, penalties include hefty fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, and, in some cases, jail time. For repeat offenders or those whose actions result in injury or death, the penalties are significantly more severe, often involving lengthy prison sentences and lifelong restrictions. Beyond the legal system, the personal ramifications can be equally severe. A DUI conviction often leads to increased insurance premiums, difficulty finding employment, and strained relationships. For many, the stigma of being labeled a "drunk driver" lingers long after legal penalties have been served.
 
New Year’s Eve is a time for celebration and reflection, but it’s also a time to prioritize safety and responsibility. By planning ahead and using available transportation resources, you can ensure that the night ends on a high note—without the risks of DUI.
Let’s make 2024 a year to remember for all the right reasons. Stay safe, and Happy New Year!