CINCINNATI, OH (November 25, 2017) – Fans on both sides of the border will be tuned in today to watch the annual match-up between The Ohio State University and the University of Michigan. But whether your team wins or loses, don’t be a loser and drink and drive.

Since the game is in Michigan this year, there will likely be lots of tailgating and local watering holes hosting watch parties, increasing the odds of impaired drivers on the road.

According to the Ohio Department of Public Safety crash statistics report, in 2016 nearly 30 percent of all fatal crashes in Ohio were alcohol related. Last year there were 12,243 alcohol-related crashes resulting in 346 deaths and thousands of injuries.

AAA reminds partygoers and those hosting parties that even one drink can be too many. If you are attending a party, plan ahead.

“Before you go out, have a plan on how you are getting home,” warns Jenifer Moore, AAA spokeswoman. “Do not wait until you’ve been drinking to decide how to get home. Generally by that point your judgment is impaired.”

AAA urges those who plan to drive to act responsibly:

• If you plan to drive – don’t drink; if you plan to drink – don’t drive!
• Buzzed driving is drunk driving. Don’t risk it.
• For motorists planning to venture out to football parties and festivities, AAA reminds you to drive only while drug and alcohol-free, or select a designated driver for the day, plan to take a cab or stay with a friend.
• Seatbelts save lives. All drivers and passengers need to buckle up.

Additional safety tips:

• If you’re hosting a gathering, be responsible, have non-alcoholic drink options, and don’t let an impaired partygoer get behind the wheel.
• Never ride as a passenger in a car driven by someone who has been drinking alcohol or doing drugs.
• If you encounter an impaired driver on the road, keep a safe distance and ask a passenger to call 911 (or pull over to a safe location to make the call yourself).

“We understand the excitement and hype surrounding football and tailgating,” says Moore. “But it is critically important to behave responsibly and not get behind the wheel if you are impaired.” 

AAA works year-round to educate the public on the dangers of impaired driving in an effort to reduce traffic-related crashes and injuries.

AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to 58 million members nationwide and more than three million members in Ohio.  AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years.  AAA is a not-for-profit, fully tax-paying member organization works on behalf of motorists, who can now map a route, find local gas prices, discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (AAA.com/mobile) for iPhone, iPad and Android.  For more information, visit www.AAA.com.