WV DMV: Thank Your Designated Driver This St. Patrick's Day
Charleston, W.V. -- Charleston, W.V. - West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (WV DMV) is continuing its year long salute to designated drivers this St. Patrick’s Day, and sharing tips for a safe holiday.
Of the 256 highway fatalities in West Virginia in 2024, one-third – 78 deaths – were attributed to alcohol use. Planning ahead is the key to celebrating safely, and sober designated drivers are the unsung heroes of the holidays.
“Celebrations should end with safe trips home, not a trip to the hospital or even worse,” said Everett Frazier, Commissioner of the DMV. “Choosing a designated driver is one of the simplest and most responsible decisions you can make. Plan ahead, look out for one another, and help keep our roads safe for everyone, including yourself.”
A cornerstone to keeping yourself and others safe on St. Patrick’s Day, and year round, is to prepare in advance. The best decisions are made before you take a drink. Some strategies for preparing for a happy, safe, and memorable holiday include;
Select your sober designated driver before the event. Often, the least impaired person ends up serving as the designated driver, but the least impaired person is still impaired. Choose a driver beforehand who will not be drinking.
If a designated driver will not be attending with your group, planning ahead is still key. Download ride share apps before the event, and make sure you know how to use them, or have a friend drop you off and pick you up. Leave your car, and keys, at home.
Being together is the purpose of a celebration, so focus on the people. Drinking may be a custom, but it is not a requirement for a memorable event. If it better meets the needs of those in your group to celebrate another way, get creative and have fun in a way that works for everyone. Know your group, and prioritize people over booze.
Thank your designated driver! They never make headlines, because they got you there safely. So celebrate them! Share the WV DMV video on Facebook or YouTube, make them a card, volunteer for their least favorite chore or cover the cost of their meal. There are many ways to say “thank you,” so choose one, or several, and show your appreciation.
Don’t drink and drive is the message of the day, but every “don’t” requires a “do.” Do be considerate of your friends. Do celebrate in a way that keeps everyone safe. Do plan ahead.