Driving safety during the holidays

ZANESVILLE, Ohio- Just two days left in 2017 and local law enforcement agencies want to remind everyone to have a safe holiday weekend.

Many people will be celebrating the New Year with various activities. Captain Jeff Lecocq of the Sheriff’s Department says for those who plan on drinking it’s important to plan ahead when it comes to transportation.

“If you’re going to be the person that drives a group somewhere, maybe you’ve…the decision has already been made that you’re going to be the designated driver for the night. If not, that person you need to make that decision before the evening ever starts. Or make arrangements with the host to know that you’re going to be able to stay at that location until it is safe for you to drive.”

Captain Lecocq says everyone should think about the long term effects of getting behind the wheel while intoxicated.

“The impact that you have on people’s lives. The risk of jail. The risk of fines. High insurance, court costs, attorney fees. All those things that you just have to weigh out that it’s not worth the risk. That you just need to have a safety plan in place.”

Most liquor permit businesses will help anyone who needs help getting home find a ride. Anyone planning on going out can also look into cabs and ride services and have those numbers on hand.