Dec 31, 2019 – As you plan to gather with family and friends to celebrate the new year, Sheriff Clayton and the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office is urging you to celebrate safely.
Let’s enjoy the celebration and make sure our loved ones make it home safely at the end of the night. Keep in mind that although you won’t be under the influence when you’re driving home, it is important to be alert at a time when the accident rate is higher than normal.
You can help by not getting behind the wheel if you are under the influence and by helping friends and family find a safe way home. Here are a few tips to prevent drivers from getting behind the wheel while they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Prevent Driving Under the Influence:
- Have a safety plan before you leave home.
- Choose a non-drinking designated driver if you’re consuming alcohol.
- Protect others by taking their keys if they attempt to drive while under the influence. They may be mad at you, but the alternative is much worse.
- Ask for a ride, call a taxi or a ride sharing service.
- If you’re throwing the party offer plenty of food and non-alcoholic drinks. Monitor your guests and set the tone that no one gets behind the wheel while under the influence.
There are several signs associated with driving under the influence. Keep these in mind to help avoid a dangerous situation. If you identify a driver that is under the influence call 9-1-1.
Detecting Drunk Drivers:
- Making wide turns
- Weaving, swerving, drifting, or straddling the center line
- Almost striking an object or vehicle
- Driving on the wrong side of the road
- Driving at a very slow speed
- Stopping without cause
- Braking erratically
- Responding slowly to traffic signals
- Turning abruptly or illegally
- Driving after dark with headlights off
“An educated and engaged community is our best partner” – Sheriff, Jerry L. Clayton
