November 22, 2010 – As the country gets ready to celebrate the holiday season, AAA is encouraging motorists to commit to driving drug and alcohol-free during the holidays and all year long. The AAA Take the Pledge campaign is being launched today on www.TakethePledge.AAA.com as a new public awareness initiative in response to feedback from members who cite impaired driving as their greatest safety concern.

AAA members, who represent one in every four households, aren’t alone. According to recent data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, nearly nine of 10 drivers say that people who drive after drinking are a very serious threat to their personal safety. Ninety-eight percent say they personally consider it unacceptable for a driver to get behind the wheel when they think they may have had too much to drink. Research shows an average of one alcohol-impaired-driving death occurs every 45 minutes.

“With Thanksgiving Eve being one the biggest bar nights of the year, it’s paramount for AAA to remind drivers of the perils of getting behind the wheel after drinking,” said Tom Chestnut, President/CEO of AAA Western and Central New York. “Before millions of people travel home this week to reunite and celebrate with friends and family, it’s important to reach them with timely messages that could help save their lives and the lives of loved ones.”

AAA’s online campaign makes it easy for motorists and passengers alike to join AAA members in the fight against drug and alcohol impaired driving. Visitors to www.TakethePledge.AAA.com can electronically sign the pledge to support a culture of zero tolerance for impaired driving and easily spread the word to family and friends via Facebook and Take the Pledge e-cards.

AAA offers the following tips to keep you and others safe on the roads during the holiday season:

• Plan ahead and designate a non-drinking driver before any holiday party or celebration begins.
• Never get behind the wheel of a car when you’ve been drinking, even after just one drink.
• Do not hesitate to take the keys from friends or family members who may be impaired.
• Be a real friend: Call a taxi for those in need.
• Be a responsible host in reminding guests to stay safe and always offer alcohol-free beverages.

As Upstate New York’s largest member services organization, AAA provides nearly 880,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive related services. Since its founding in 1900, AAA has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. Visit AAA at www.AAA.com.