Hampton Roads, VA. (June 2024) – As Independence Day approaches, many Americans eagerly anticipate celebrating with family, friends, food, and fireworks. However, the joy of the holiday can quickly turn to tragedy due to impaired driving. Last year, over just five days of 4th of July celebrations, there were 122 alcohol-related crashes, resulting in 80 injuries and seven fatalities. Alarmingly, four of those who died were young adults aged 21 to 25, underscoring the critical need for sober driving.
To combat this issue, Drive Safe Hampton Roads (DSHR) is once again sponsoring the 757 Sober Ride campaign for the July 4th holiday. This initiative, running from 10 pm on Wednesday, July 3, through to 3 am on Friday, July 5, offers free Lyft rides (up to $15) for those celebrating with alcohol. By ensuring a safe ride home, DSHR aims to reduce the number of impaired drivers on the roads and, consequently, the number of crashes and fatalities.
Residents of Hampton Roads aged 21 and older can take advantage of this service by downloading the Lyft app and entering the 757 Sober Ride code in the app’s “Payment” tab under the “Add Lyft Pass” option. The promo code will be posted at 10 pm on Wednesday, July 3, on the Drive Safe Hampton Roads website and will be valid while supplies last. The code can be used for rides originating from or with a destination within Hampton Roads and is subject to Lyft’s Terms of Service.
Jonathan Turner, Chairperson of the 757 Sober Ride campaign, emphasized the importance of making responsible choices: “Impaired driving can take away your freedom or someone else’s freedom to celebrate Independence Day with family and friends. Celebrate responsibly by choosing 757 Sober Ride or allowing a designated sober driver to get you home safely without any incidents.”
The statistics from last year’s Independence Day celebrations are a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by impaired driving. In Hampton Roads alone, there were 200 crashes during the July 4th holiday period, with 135 injuries and one fatality. Twelve of these crashes were alcohol-related. By providing a convenient and free option for a safe ride home, the 757 Sober Ride campaign aims to reduce these numbers and save lives.
As you plan your 4th of July celebrations, remember the importance of making safe and responsible choices. Use the 757 Sober Ride service or designate a sober driver to ensure that you and your loved ones can enjoy the holiday without incident. Celebrate America’s birthday with the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’ve done your part to keep the roads safe for everyone.
For more information on the 757 Sober Ride campaign and other initiatives by Drive Safe Hampton Roads, visit Drive Safe HR. Have a happy and safe Independence Day!