JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As drivers hit the roads this Labor Day weekend, a local group is reminding people not to drink and drive.
For decades, Mothers Against Drunk Driving has been on the ground to make sure there’s not another victim.
It’s the reason the organization is pleading with the community to drink responsibly.
Many consider Labor Day the unofficial end of summer, but for Judy Cotton with Mothers Against Drunk Driving, it’s another weekend that puts her a little on edge.
“Every holiday weekend, we at MADD just hold our breaths and just hope there’s not going to be a phone call at the end of that saying someone needs our help because their loved one has been in a crash,” Cotton said.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Labor Day weekend is the deadliest summer holiday weekend.
At least 38% of deadly crashes nationwide from Labor Day 2020 involved a drunk driver. That’s the latest year reported.
Cotton wants people in Florida to especially be alert, as many people drive in from out of state to have a good time.
“Unfortunately, people come here for the good time, the vacation, and they leave with not-so-good memories because there’s been an alcohol-related crash,” she said.
NHTSA reports more than 3,900 deadly Labor Day weekend crashes from 2011 to 2020.
That’s why Cotton wants people to be prepared before heading out for a good time.
“Have that plan. Stick to it,” she said. “If alcohol is going to be in your plans, once again, the key is to have a plan. At the end of the day, if you’re going to drink, don’t drive.”
Cotton said plans include having a designated driver, using rideshare services, or even AAA’s Tow-2-Go program.
Law enforcement agencies in both Florida and Georgia are also stepping up patrols and keeping a close eye on drivers who may be impaired with the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” Campaign.