It’s Easter: Let’s Take a Lesson From New Yorkers

Unfortunately every long weekend or holiday season I get a sense of dread in the pit of my stomach. It’s not the dread of seeing dysfunctional family members, or over-eating and feeling ill.

This dread comes from the fact that no matter how many times people hear the message, there are always those to who think they are ‘good to drive’ after a few drinks. The rate of impaired drivers on the road during any long weekend is close to 4 times what it would be on a regular day. I dread driving on the roads, not knowing if someone is going to lose control and smash into my family. I dread hearing about traffic accidents, with the thought in my mind that it might be someone I know or love that was hit by an impaired driver.

I recently read a report about drunk driving statistics in the United States. Shockingly New York City has one of the lowest rates of impaired fatalities in the country. With a diverse population of 8.4 million and a reputation for quality craft beer and a busy night life I did not think this was possible.

It’s not that the people of New York are prohibitionists or drink any less than other cities. It has much more to do with the fact that New Yorkers are known for walking or taking public transportation. The culture of New York prevents many would-be impaired drivers. Let’s take a lesson from our neighbors to the south. Create a culture around you that does not allow you to drink and drive. Arrange transportation a head of get-together’s. Take public transportation. Make responsible decisions.

My family is going to be on the roads this Easter weekend – I would ask everyone to do their part to help keep them safe.