December 2003, #15


With the holiday season in full swing and the New Year quickly approaching, we would like to make a small reminder about operating vehicles (including bicycles) under the influence.

‘Tis the season for parties (and parties and parties) and celebrating the year that has passed and the promise of the one directly ahead. By now, most people are aware of the risks of drinking and driving, and yet in California, 37% of all traffic related deaths involved a driver who had been drinking (1,400 people in 2000).

Amazingly, a study published in the February 2001 Journal of the American Medical Association linked drinking and bicycling to a third of bicycle related fatalities! Furthermore, Mother’s Against Drunk Driving (MADD) reports that 38% of pedestrians involved in fatal collisions have alcohol in their blood.

Obviously, no matter how you are getting around, drinking affects one’s judgment and timing. Therefore, it is important to plan accordingly.

Drivers have the greatest responsibility, as the captain of 2,000 (or more) pounds of metal, a small misjudgment in timing or distance can result in death or the maiming of not only themselves, but another person, while cyclists and pedestrians more likely put only themselves at risk.

Alameda is a perfect town for going out under one’s own power and celebrating the new year. For many that involves a festive beverage or two (or three…). If cycling, revelers should walk their bikes home; it might take a little longer, but the extra time is well worth it. Pedestrians need to be aware that not only is there an increased presence of impaired drivers, but also that their own judgment may be a little off. Cross the road at a traffic-light controlled intersection and be extra cautious in determining when it’s safe to cross the road.

The most obvious solution is to have a designated companion who can make sure that common sense (the first thing to go out the window with a couple of drinks) is used while getting home. Whether it’s driving everyone home, or walking friends home to make sure they get there, this is one of the greatest gifts that one can give to their friends and loved ones for the new year.

If walking is out of the question, taxis are available all over the island to help you arrive home safely. It should also be noted that Alameda’s Finest will be out during the holiday season, on alert for impaired drivers, and will be running sobriety checks a couple of times in the coming weeks.
We say: “Party On!” but please be smart so you get home safely at the end of the night. Best wishes to everyone in the New Year.

Jeff Swatman is the Alameda Police Department Traffic Sergeant. If you have questions regarding pedestrian/bicycle safety, please call him at 748-4508 extension 3342. John Knox White and Audrey Lord-Hausman work with Pedestrian Friendly Alameda (www.pedfriendly.org) and BikeAlameda (www.bikealameda.org).

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