The Season Is Colorful And Bright. Keep The Roads Extra Safe.

“Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.” — Proverbs 20:1, KJV

December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, a moment to protect what matters most—lives made in the image of God. According to NHTSA, alcohol-impaired driving still accounts for about 30% of all traffic deaths in the United States; 12,429 people were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes in 2023—a tragedy averaging one death every 42 minutes. 

Holiday gatherings bring joy, but also risk. From 2018–2022, more than 4,750 people died in drunk-driving crashes in December alone, and 1,062 died in December 2022, the highest since 2007. The charge is simple: plan ahead, drive only when sober, and help loved ones do the same.

“Let us walk honestly, as in the day… not in rioting and drunkenness… But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ.” — Romans 13:13–14, KJV

Why This Matters Now

Federal health and safety agencies continue to warn that impaired driving—whether from alcohol, drugs, or certain medications—remains a leading, preventable cause of roadway deaths. The CDC estimates 32 people die every day in alcohol-impaired crashes—one every 45 minutes. 

NHTSA’s national campaigns repeat one clear message: designate a sober driver, use a ride service, or stay the night—never drive impaired. 

“And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.” — Ephesians 5:18, KJV

New Year’s Eve: Decide Your Ride Now

New Year’s Eve is one of the highest-risk nights of the year. Make your plan before the first toast:

• Line up a designated sober driver or pre-schedule a ride-share/taxi.

• Check local safe-ride options. Many communities offer seasonal programs, such as AAA’s Tow-to-Go in select states (free, last-resort rides and short tows on major holidays) and SoberRide® credits in the Greater Washington, DC region. Availability and details vary; confirm locally before you go. 

“In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” — Proverbs 3:6, KJV

Five Things You Can Start Doing Today

1. Make a written transportation plan for every holiday event. Put the sober driver’s name or the ride-share pickup time in your calendar. (NHTSA urges planning ahead as the first line of prevention.)  

2. Be a gracious host who protects guests. Serve plenty of food and water, stop serving alcohol early, offer couches and spare rooms, and keep ride-share info visible. (December safety guidance emphasizes alternatives to driving.)  

3. Know medicine risks. Many prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs impair driving; when in doubt, do not drive.  

4. Model the standard with your family. Teens and young adults watch what you do. Make “sober keys only” a household rule, every trip, every time.  

5. Share local resources. Post hotline numbers or local safe-ride options in your group texts before gatherings (e.g., AAA Tow-to-Go in participating areas; regional SoberRide programs).  

Biblical Encouragement for Wise Choices

• Noah reminds us how alcohol can cloud judgment and harm families when boundaries fail (Genesis 9:20–23).

• Daniel shows decisive restraint for a higher standard (Daniel 1:8).

• The Good Samaritan models protective love for strangers on the road (Luke 10:33–35).

• Joseph demonstrates anticipatory wisdom—planning for danger before it arrives (Genesis 41).

• Paul calls believers to sober-minded living that safeguards the community (1 Thessalonians 5:6–8).

Reflection Questions

1. What is my family’s clear plan to prevent impaired driving at our December gatherings and on New Year’s Eve?

2. Who can I text today to confirm designated drivers or ride-share arrangements?

3. Do I keep track of medications that may impair driving, and have I adjusted my plans accordingly?

4. How can I, as a host or guest, make it easy for others to choose a sober ride?

5. What Scripture will I speak over my household as we travel this month?

Truth Declaration

“By God’s grace, I choose life-protecting wisdom. I will plan sober transportation, protect my family and neighbors, and honor the Lord with every trip this holiday season.”

If you see an impaired driver, pull over safely and call 911. May your December be full of peace, and your New Year begin with life preserved and hope renewed.