"During the Christmas and New Year's period in 2018, there were 285 drunk driving-related fatalities nationwide," said AAA Mid-Atlantic spokesperson Tracy Noble.
They suggest having a designated driver, someone who commits to not have anything alcoholic to drink, at all. Add the numbers of taxi services or install ride-sharing apps to your phone before going out to celebrate. Never ride as a passenger in a car driven by someone who has been drinking alcohol — even after just one drink.
And AAA cautioned those who take medications to know how your body reacts to them before getting behind a wheel. Prescription or over-the-counter medications, as well as illegal drugs, can impair your ability to drive safely.
Noble said these aren't accidents, but preventable crashes.
"We are just asking folks to be responsible motorists and take into consideration that it's not only your own life, but these destructive decisions can affect the lives of anybody elese you share the road with," she implored of drivers.
The organization also asked hosts to act responsibly in making sure their guests don't get behind the wheel while under the influence. Have non-alcoholic options available for guests, and do not hesitate to take the keys from friends or family members who may be impaired.
AAA also invited partygoers to make an online pledge: don't drive intoxicated and don't drive "intexticated" — that means no texting and driving.