AAA Reminds Motorists That Drinking and Driving Don't Mix

BELLEVUE, Wash., Dec. 9, 2002; During the Holiday Season, AAA reminds motorists that drinking and driving can be a deadly mix. In our nation, one person dies every 32 minutes in a crash where alcohol is involved. The holiday season brings more parties and occasions to drink, thus an increased risk of partygoers choosing to drive after drinking.

"Simply stated, drinking and driving don't mix," says Janet Ray, managing director, Corporate Communications, AAA Washington/Inland. "About three of every ten Americans will be involved in an alcohol-related collision at some time in their lives."

Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration showed in 2001 there were 17,448 alcohol-related fatal crashes in the nation, 281 occurred in Washington. Forty-three percent of all vehicle crash fatalities in Washington were alcohol related, and 21 percent of drivers in fatal crashes had a BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) greater than or equal to .08 grams per deciliter, Washington state's legal limit.

Driving responsibly begins before entering your vehicle. Adults who choose to drink should also choose a designated driver before consuming any alcohol. If you are hosting a holiday event where alcohol is being served, be a responsible host. Take note of who's coming, who drinks, who drives and who is most likely to mix drinking and driving.

Here are a couple non-alcoholic drink recipe ideas for your holiday parties:

The Natural: 1/2 banana 1/4 apple, with skin 6 medium-sized strawberries 2 oz. fresh pineapple 2 oz. natural apple juice 1/2 cup ice Blend all ingredients. Serve in wine glass, garnish with fresh

strawberries. White Zin Raspberry Fooler: 4 oz. non-alcoholic White Zinfandel 1 oz. raspberry Daiquiri mix 2-1/2 oz. lemon-lime soft drink 1/2 oz. Grenadine 1 tsp. Sugar Combine all ingredients, stir and serve. AAA Washington/Inland provides 815,000 members in Washington and northern Idaho a full range of products and benefits, including travel agencies, personal lines insurance agencies, a range of auto-related services, and member discounts on many consumer products and services. A not-for-profit organization, AAA also assists travelers through its highway and transportation safety and legislative advocacy programs. More information about AAA is available on the company's website at www.aaa.com.