By MADD
New Year’s Eve is the deadliest night of the year for drunk driving. Last year, more than 60% of vehicle fatalities that night involved a drunk driver. In light of this sobering statistic and the increase in holiday parties over the coming weeks, we would like to share with you the following information to help you ensure you stay safe during this festive, yet potentially deadly time of year on our roads:
If you are hosting a party:
You can be financially responsible if someone leaves a party you hosted and kills or injures someone in a drunk driving crash. The good news is that our friends at Mothers Against Drunk Driving have provided us with some Safe Party Tips to help you throw a fun and safe party everyone will remember. You can find those here.
If you are attending a party:
Make a plan before you go out. You put so much thought into the logistics of your night on the town, but are you thinking about how you are getting home? By making a plan at the beginning of the night, you are more likely to make the right choice at the end of the night. Most importantly, remember: it’s not worth it. There are plenty of ways to get home (taxi, car service, rideshare, etc.). Never get behind the wheel of a car after drinking and never get in the car being driven by someone who has been drinking.
The holidays are also a good time to reflect on your overall health and wellness (Total Wellness) and remember that we have mental health resources available to members of the NFL family. In addition to the NFL Lifeline, Players, Coaches and their families, have access to the NFL Players Assistance and Counseling Services Program available for which can be accessed by calling (866) 421-8628. You can also check with your club HR Director or Player Engagement Director for other EAP and local resources available to you and your family. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.