OCEAN CITY POLICE REMINDING CITIZENS: “THE BEST WAY TO SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER IS DRIVING SOBER THIS YEAR”

The Ocean City Police Department is reminding citizens that “the best way to spread holiday cheer is driving sober this year.” While millions of people celebrate the holidays, the Ocean City Police Department will be aggressively enforcing impaired
driving, distracted driving and negligent driving to assure that people get home safely this season.

“The message is simple, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. Drinking alcohol or doing drugs and driving do not mix. If you plan to consume alcohol, or are under the influence of any substance, you should not get behind the wheel of any vehicle or operate a motorcycle,” said Chief Bernadette DiPino.

In December 2009, there were 753 people killed in crashes that involved drivers or motorcycle riders with blood alcohol concentrations of .08 grams per deciliter or higher.

“Unfortunately millions of drivers on America’s highways still think they are invincible, and they choose to jeopardize their safety and the safety of others on our roads,” she said. “There will be no spreading holiday cheer behind the bars of a jail cell,” Chief DiPino continued. “Don’t let your 2011 holiday season end in an
arrest or worse, death. Remember, whether you’ve had way too many or just one too many, it’s not worth the risk.”

The Ocean City Police Department recommends these simple tips for a safe holiday season:

Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin;

Before drinking, designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home;

If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public
transportation;

If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact your local law enforcement; and remember, Drive Sober Or Get Pulled Over. If you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take that person’s keys and help him or her make other arrangements to get home safely.