Authorities talk New Year’s Eve safety, resources for getting home safe

JACKSON, Tenn. — This time of year often sees a spike in crashes that resulting in serious injuries or death. Local authorities are reminding citizens to drive safely and responsibly for the holidays.

Traffic crashes are a leading cause of death during the holidays. This New Year’s Eve, authorities urge residents to ring in the new year safely.

“Drinking alcohol and driving does not mix,” said Stephen Sutton, Public Information Officer for the Crockett County Sheriff’s Office. “It impairs our judgement even from the first drink, your judgement begins to be impaired.”

According to carinsurance.com, Tennessee ranks Top 10 among the most dangerous states to drive in during the New Year holiday.

The most dangerous time to drive on New Year’s is after the ball drops, between 1 and 3 in the morning.

“You may be practicing good, safe driving. You may not be impaired,” Sutton said. “But other people may be. And so, if you keep your distance from them and you’re paying attention and you’re a good, defensive driver, then when that offensive action happens towards you and comes to you, you can avoid that crash.”

Drunk driving is not the only risk for New Year’s Eve, as celebratory gunfire also poses some danger.

“You know, shooting up into the air is not wise. That’s reckless behavior. There can be charges that can be filed as a result of that, especially if other people are injured or hurt,” said Sutton.

The reality is that these bullets will inevitably return to Earth, potentially striking the ground, vehicles, buildings, or people.

If you are out celebrating the New Year and are under the influence, authorities urge you to arrange for other means of transportation.

“Call somebody and let them take you home, so that you don’t kill somebody else on our roadways or yourself,” Sutton said.

As a safe alternative to driving impaired, local authorities are offering free rides home on New Year’s Eve. This service is available in Henderson and Gibson Counties, and the Cities of Martin and Lexington. AAA is also bringing back their free “tow to go” within a 10-mile radius by calling (855) 2-TOW-2-GO.

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