Not worth it: Holiday deaths is a statistic no one wants to see increase

One of the reasons to drive safely this holiday weekend -- and not to get behind the wheel of a car if you have had anything to drink -- is because there will be more officers on the highways.

After all, who wants a ticket ... or worse?

But there are more reasons than that to make sure you stay at the speed limit, pay attention to the highway and not your cell phone and get someone else to drive if you might have had one too many drinks.

Every year, there is some horrific story of someone, somewhere who loses his or her life much too soon because of some dumb decision with regard to driving and alcohol.

And that is a story no one in Wayne County wants to write -- or read.

It might take a little longer to drive safely somewhere. Driving at the speed limit and taking time for breaks will make the trip longer, but it just might save your life, or someone else's.

And taking the keys away from someone who has had too much to drink might be a little embarrassing, but it also could save a life.

It just is not worth the risk to behave any other way.

There will be plenty of officers out this weekend to remind you of the legal consequences of irresponsible behavior on the roadways. Also, take the time to think about the human risk as well -- and then, make the right decision. Have a safe and happy Labor Day.

Published in Editorials on September 3, 2010 10:51 AM