TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Attorney General Ashley Moody is urging Floridians to prioritize safety as they prepare to ring in the New Year. With the National Safety Council estimating that over 400 people may lose their lives on U.S. roads during the New Year’s holiday, Attorney General Moody is reminding citizens to be cautious, avoid impaired driving, and consider the well-being of themselves and others.
Speaking on the matter, Attorney General Ashley Moody emphasized the need for responsible celebrations, stating, “New Year’s Eve is an exciting time to reflect on the past year and celebrate a new beginning. However, it is imperative to celebrate responsibly. I encourage all Floridians to plan ahead, have a designated driver, and take measures to ensure you bring in the new year safely.”
To help individuals celebrate responsibly, Attorney General Moody offers the following tips for a safe New Year’s Eve:
- Establish a designated driver or use a rideshare service if consuming alcohol.
- Stay vigilant on the roads, as there may be an increase in drivers under the influence.
- Be aware of surroundings at all times, especially in crowded or unfamiliar places.
- Use caution when handling fireworks and adhere to local laws and regulations.
It is important to note that New Year’s Eve also marks the conclusion of National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Crash Dashboard, there were over 6,200 impaired-driving crashes in 2022, resulting in more than 1,100 fatalities. These statistics highlight the urgent need for individuals to prioritize safety and make responsible choices during this celebratory period.
To assist those in need of a safe ride home, the American Automobile Association’s Tow to Go program has been providing a free and confidential ride service since 1998. This service is available to both AAA members and nonmembers. Additional information about the Tow to Go program can be found [here](https://www.aaa.com/autorepair/shop/tow-to-go).
Furthermore, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is an organization dedicated to preventing drunk or drugged driving accidents and ensuring a future with no more victims. For Floridians seeking statistics, solutions, and helplines, the MADD website offers a wealth of information [here](https://www.madd.org/florida/).
As Floridians prepare to welcome the New Year, it is crucial to remember the importance of celebrating safely. By following Attorney General Moody's advice and making responsible choices, individuals can help ensure a joyous and accident-free start to 2024. Let us all prioritize safety and make responsible decisions to protect ourselves and others during this celebratory season.
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To learn more, click on this link: https://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrelease/attorney-general-moody-urges-floridians-celebrate-new-years-eve-safely