LA PLATA, MD— The Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office (SAO) is continuing its annual “Drive Sober” initiative for the fourth consecutive year, focusing on raising awareness about the dangers of impaired driving and offering practical measures to keep the community safe. The campaign will run during the holiday season, from November 25, 2024, to January 1, 2025, a period historically marked by an increase in alcohol-related traffic fatalities.
The initiative includes a range of preventative strategies to curb impaired driving, including free or discounted rideshare options, educational outreach, and practical tools for safe decision-making.
Free Rideshare Discounts on Key Dates
For drivers aged 21 and older, the SAO is providing Uber discount codes to encourage responsible transportation during peak holiday celebrations.
- Thanksgiving Eve (November 27-28): The Uber code will offer up to $15 off rides within Charles County from 6 p.m. on Wednesday, November 27, until 6 a.m. on Thursday, November 28.
- New Year’s Eve (December 31-January 1): For the first time, the SAO will extend the initiative to New Year’s Eve, offering the same discount during the same time frame.
The discount codes will be accessible on the SAO’s official “Drive Sober” webpage at www.ccsao.us/DriveSober. Supplies of these discounts are limited, so residents are encouraged to plan accordingly.
Additional Resources for Safe Driving
In addition to rideshare discounts, the SAO will distribute:
- Rideshare gift cards to ensure more people can access transportation options.
- Nonalcoholic drink vouchers to promote sober celebrations.
- Keychain breathalyzers as a tool to help individuals make informed decisions about their ability to drive.
Information on where to obtain these materials can also be found on the campaign webpage.
Raising Awareness with New Billboard
A prominent part of this year’s campaign is a new billboard featuring State’s Attorney Tony Covington. The display encourages motorists to prioritize safety with the message: “Drive Sober. Make it home for the holidays.”
Holiday Season Risks
The winter holiday season is one of the most dangerous times on the roads. According to national traffic safety statistics, impaired driving incidents spike during this period, leading to an increased risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
“Impaired driving is a preventable tragedy,” the SAO emphasized. “Our goal is to provide residents with the tools and information they need to make safe choices and avoid devastating consequences.”
Learn More
For more information on the dangers of impaired driving, tips for safe celebrations, and additional campaign details, visit www.ccsao.us/DriveSober.
