A sharp increase in holiday travel is expected this year across Washington state, and officials are asking people to make smart decisions before they hit the road.
“This is the time of year when weather, drugs and alcohol seem to come to the forefront,” Washington State Patrol Lt. Jeff Sass said.
Drivers need to make “safe and sound” choices while enjoying festivities with friends, family and neighbors, he said.
If people choose to drink at parties, they need to make plans to get home safely, Sass said.
“Find a ride home so the Washington State Patrol doesn’t have to make that decision” for you, he said.
Last year, nearly half the number of traffic collisions reported statewide were a result of suspected drunken driving.
The concern is that with more people on the roads, the opportunity for fatal or injury collisions increases, said Jennifer Cook, a spokeswoman for AAA of Washington.
Across the United States, AAA expects 88 million people to travel for Christmas or New Year’s, she said.
In Washington, 12 percent more people than last year likely will drive, take a flight or ride a train, Cook said.
The increase comes after the past two years when fuel costs surged and holiday travel decreased. With relatively stable gas prices and a rebounding economy, more people are feeling confident enough to visit friends or relatives this year.
“That means our roads are going to be crowded,” she said.
Four people died in a suspected drunken-driving crash Thanksgiving weekend along Highway 9 in Marysville.
Officials don’t want to see another tragedy.
People planning to host parties can do their part, Cook said.
Give special gifts to designated drivers or ask people to take a cab, she said.
“There are many things you can do to make sure your guests have a great time and stay safe,” she said.
Trooper Keith Leary suggested making sure people’s vehicles have emergency kits in case they get stuck in bad weather.
“Make sure you get plenty of rest prior to driving,” Leary said.
An Arlington man, 49, died near Oso in August after police believe he fell asleep during a drive home from Idaho.
Driving distracted or drowsy can be as dangerous as driving drunk, Leary said.
“We want to have zero fatalities,” the trooper said. “That’s always our goal.”
Jackson Holtz: 425-339-3437, jholtz@heraldnet.com.
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