Phil Ammann
With New Year’s Eve only a couple of days away, Uber is reminding users that the best ridesharing customers are living ridesharing customers.
In a new email, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is joining Uber to call on users to “commit to being a #DesignatedRider by planning ahead to avoid drinking and driving.”
Nearly 29 people in the United States die every day in alcohol-impaired vehicle accidents. That’s one person every 50 minutes in 2016, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration figures. And the holidays account for a significant number of drunken driving fatalities. Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve in 2016, 891 drunken driving fatalities occurred across the country — 26 percent of all traffic deaths.
Technology is making it easier than ever to get a safe ride home. Uber — as the designated driver for holiday celebrations — can effectively decrease the number of drunken driving deaths.
“We expect dedicated designated riders this holiday season to contribute to our Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving, which is essential in saving lives,” said MADD Interim CEO Vicki Knox. “With non-drinking friends, public transportation, and rideshare services like Uber available as designated drivers, there is no reason to drive drunk.”
“Driving under the influence is absolutely preventable and we want to urge everyone this holiday season to plan ahead and choose a safe ride home,” said Uber Florida General Manager Kasra Moshkani. “Uber is committed to helping people make smart choices and we thank our local law enforcement and MADD partners, as well as our driver-partners, for all they do to help keep the roads safe during this holiday season.”
In addition, MADD volunteers nationwide are offering tips for the safest holiday season, with Uber (of course):
— It Just Takes One Drink, So Plan Ahead — After just one drink, your ability to make the right decisions diminishes significantly. Even small amounts of alcohol can reduce your ability to drive safely. Have a plan to get home safely before your night starts.
— Use Rideshare, Public Transit or Get a Designated Driver — Don’t take the chance. Leave the keys behind if you know you will be drinking.
— Create a Rideshare Account Before You Leave The House — Don’t wait to sign up for rideshare apps like Uber for your first trip after you are out. Uber and MADD suggest downloading the app and sign up first, before you hit the parties.
MADD is also offering an online safe party guide.
