By Ricardo Roura
Dec 19, 2024, 10:21 PM EST
Like every year, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) reminded residents of the danger posed by driving under the influence during the Christmas and New Year season.
Due to the frequent parties, in which alcohol is often present, serious traffic accidents are recorded, which in a high number leave regrettable human losses.
The authorities took the opportunity to reiterate the request to the people that Accidents involving alcohol can be avoided and they reiterated the message: if you drink alcoholic beverages, do not drive.
Keep reading: Young people die in alleged alcohol crash in Riverside
“All of this can be prevented. One simple thing people can do, the community can do, is just plan ahead,” LAPD Officer Ryan Bronk of the Valley Traffic Division told Fox.
“There will be celebratory events, we want you to enjoy your family, your friends and your loved ones. Just plan ahead. If you plan to consume alcohol, do not get behind the wheel“Bronk said.
Unfortunately, In most cases, people do not take care to do this prior planning.. They arrive at a party, start drinking, and by that point it’s too late to start planning what to do.
Keep reading: Mourning in Hispanic family after death of motorcyclist by drunk driver in Orange County
“You’re a little drunk, maybe you didn’t prepare your plan, and what we see is that people are less likely to follow those safe practices if they didn’t make that plan beforehand,” the LAPD officer added.
In addition to avoiding driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs during this holiday season, Officer Bronk also mentioned of the danger represented by cell phone distraction while driving.
“If you are a driver, you want to have your cell phone close at hand. If this is too much of a temptation, leave it in the center console if necessary. Most people can connect their phones to their cars these days; But it’s not just about that distraction, but about anything that takes your eyes off the road,” he said.
Keep reading: Two people die in crash caused by suspected drunk driver in Ventura County
Officer Bronk mentioned that it is important to remember that it is not just about alcohol or drug related use, but Prescription medications should also be taken into account..
People can take medications that can cause opposite reactions when combined with the consumption of even a sip of winewhich can cause the opposite effect without that prescribed medication.
“You should check with your doctor to make sure alcohol will not affect the medications you take.. It is also important to make healthy decisions and be vigilant, let your doctor inform you about what you should do when it comes to driving,” Officer Bronk reiterated.
Keep reading:
· More than 1,100 people arrested in California for driving under the influence over the holiday weekend
· Hispanic woman from Garden Grove dies from an allegedly drunk driver who crashes into her house
· Los Angeles Prosecutor’s Office will exercise a tough hand to prosecute drunk drivers