PennDOT, Highway Safety Network Urge Pennsylvanians to Drive Sober, Buckle Up This Holiday Season

Clearfield, PA - The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and the Highway Safety Network (HSN) gathered at the Commonwealth University Clearfield Campus today to urge everyone to designate a sober driver for their holiday travels. As part of their Operation Safe Holiday messaging, they also reminded everyone that buckling up is their best defense against injury if involved in a crash.​

At the event, PennDOT and HSN invited the student body to operate the impaired driving simulator and complete activities while wearing Drunk Busters alcohol and drug impairment simulation goggles. PennDOT and HSN also distributed literature on the legal and social consequences of DUI.

"This event is important as it tackles a serious topic in a safe environment," said Commonwealth University Clearfield Campus Director Valerie Dixon. "Driving under any kind of drug or alcohol influence is just simply dangerous, and educating students on this topic is crucial. This activity is presented in a less threatening manner that allows students to understand the potential repercussions from their actions. CU-Clearfield is always happy to hold this event on our campus."

PennDOT District 2 Safety Press Officer Steve Harmic said, "While there is never a good time for tragedy to strike, it's especially heartbreaking for it to occur during this time of year. That's why we're stressing to everyone the importance of wearing seat belts and driving sober during the holiday season."

HSN Community Traffic Safety Project Coordinator Josh Woods offered responsible party hosting tips for those planning to host a party and those planning to attend a party. He said, "If you're the designated driver, take the job seriously. Enjoy the food but not the booze. If you're hosting the party, ask guests to pace themselves, enjoy the food, and drink plenty of water. If you know someone has been drinking and they try to leave, take their keys, and help them get home safely or offer to let them spend the night."

According to PennDOT data, there were 1,061 alcohol-related crashes resulting in 22 fatalities and 608 injuries between November 22, 2023, and January 2, 2024. During that same time, there were 360 drug-related crashes, resulting in 26 fatalities and 267 injuries.

For more information on the dangers and consequences of impaired driving or on the benefits of wearing seat belts, visit www.PennDOT.pa.gov/Safety

For regional traffic updates, follow www.twitter.com/511PAStateCOLL.

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