LITTLE ROCK – While this time of year often includes family, friends, and festivities, Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge is urging all Arkansans to enjoy the holiday season safely and responsibly. Every day in the United States, 28 people die from drunk driving. In 2019, over 10,000 people were killed in drunk driving accidents.  

“Arkansas is a zero tolerance state for drinking and driving and when you get behind the wheel impaired you are putting other families at risk,” said Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge. “Arkansans should enjoy the holiday safely and responsibly and know that they must drive sober or face getting pulled over.”

For those choosing to celebrate the New Year, Arkansas State Police recommends:

• Have a designated sober driver if you plan to consume alcohol.

• If you don’t have a designated driver and you’ve been drinking, call a taxi, Uber, Lyft or someone who is sober to drive you home.

• If you know someone who is about to drive, operate a motorcycle, or any other vehicle while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to their destination safely.

• Buckle up, always. Your seat belt is your best defense against a drunk driver.

• Always call 9-1-1 if you see a drunk driver on the road.

Arkansans convicted of driving while intoxicated face license suspension or revocation, fines, and even jail time.

For more information on other safety-related issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at (800) 482-8982.