According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, approximately one-third of all traffic crash fatalities in the United States involve drunk drivers (with blood alcohol levels of .08 g/dL or higher).
In 2018, there were 10,511 people killed in these preventable crashes, NHTSA statistics show. In fact, on average over the 10-year period from 2006-2016, more than 10,000 people died every year in drunk-driving crashes, information from NHTSA website indicates.
New Year’s Eve is notoriously known for its alcohol-fueled celebrations, NHTSA officials said. Partiers are more likely to drink and drive in the wee hours of Jan. 1 than any other holiday.
In an effort to make sure those celebrating the New Year in Maysville don’t become a part of those statistics, Geno’s Taxi, the city of Maysville and the Maysville Police Department are teaming up to offer free cab rides to revelers who have been drinking, according to MPD Lt. Chris Conely.
According to Conley, each person will be allowed one ride from their location (party, bar, etc.) to their home in Maysville or Mason County.
The program will be effective from 9 p.m., New Year’s Eve until 3 a.m., New Year’s Day and will be available by calling Geno’s Taxi directly at 606-564-8911.
“We hope this effort will provide individuals with a plan to safely celebrate the new year and aid in keeping intoxicated drivers off the roadways.
Donations for the PAID program are welcome and can be made by contacting Conely at 606-564-9411.
