With New Year's Eve celebrations just around the corner, the State Thruway Authority is taking part in the annual Mothers Against Drunk Driving "Tie One On For Safety Campaign." Toll collectors are handing out MADD's signature foot-long red ribbons for motorists to tie onto their vehicle to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving.
President of MADD in Erie County Elizabeth Obad is asking people to have a plan before going out and celebrating.
"If you're hosting a party, please have a plan to get those people home. Arrange transportation or keep them at your house, but for God's sake, don't put them out on the road. Think ahead. Have a plan. Think about how you're going to get home. Call a cab. Call Designated Drivers of Buffalo," Obad suggests.
The "Tie One On For Safety" campaign, in its 26th year, is MADD's longest running and most visible public awareness project. Obad tells WBFO News the campaign is about public awareness and saving lives.
"Think about the victims that are out there on the road. Think about our children. Think about the parents that have had to go through these holidays without their children. It can happen to any one of us," Obad said.
The State Police are planning special DWI patrols and random checkpoints through the holiday.