Before we all kick back and give thanks over a turkey dinner, Montgomery County is ramping up efforts to curb impaired driving, anticipating the usual spike on the roads during holiday festivities. The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) and Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD) are sending a clear message: if your celebration involves alcohol or cannabis, stay away from the driver's seat, as reported by the Montgomery County Government.
Known for its Vision Zero campaign to eliminate traffic fatalities, the county has once again activated its "Holiday Task Force," this time starting November 20, all the way through to the New Year’s celebrations until January 11. The task force is set to vigorously patrol for impaired drivers using checkpoints and increased police presence, making sure the festive spirit doesn't turn tragic. In a statement shared with the public, County Executive Marc Elrich urged the community to "plan ahead to stay off the roads" and highlighted the full-force approach of the Holiday Task Force in ensuring safety, as per the Montgomery County Government.
A sobering reminder comes from last year's statistics, with the task force having arrested 143 drivers for driving under the influence. According to an official press release, Maryland drivers convicted of DUI face severe penalties, including loss of license, fines, and potential jail time. These stringent measures reflect the gravity of impaired driving and its dire consequences.
Chris Conklin, the MCDOT Director, warned that the holiday season unfortunately often leads to a rise in both traffic volume and dangerous driving behaviors. He pushed for alternative transportation for those planning to partake in festivities, advising individuals to "designate a driver before heading out, utilize a ride-share service or plan to take public transportation." Last year's figures from the National Safety Council, highlighted in the press release, projected 502 potential deaths on U.S. roads during the Thanksgiving weekend, over a third of which may result from impaired driving.
For those interested in more information on transportation services, the Montgomery County Department of Transportation offers updates through its various social media channels and the "Go Montgomery!" newsletter, accessible from its website.
