Charlottesville, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – As the New Year approaches, Virginia State Police spokesperson Matt Demlein is urging Virginians to prioritize safe driving during the holiday season. In a recent interview on Morning News, Demlein emphasized the importance of avoiding impaired driving, especially as people attend parties and celebrations. 

“Safe driving. Big key is driving sober…If you’re going to drink, don’t drive… If you have something to drink, find a safe way to get home,” Demlein urged. He also suggested using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft as alternatives to driving after drinking. 

State police will be increasing their presence on the roads during the holiday period to enforce traffic laws and remove impaired drivers. “We will make sure that if there is a drunk driver out there, that we’re doing the best we can to make sure we get those folks off the road, ” Demlein added. 

He also stressed the importance of seatbelt use, especially after a tragic holiday season that saw four fatalities, none of which involved seatbelt use.  

To help combat impaired driving, Demlein urged the public to report any suspicious behavior on the roads by dialing #77. “The sooner we can get an impaired driver off the road, the better it is for them, and the better it is for everyone driving,” he noted.  

As Virginians prepare for the New Year’s festivities, the Virginia State Police continue to emphasize responsible driving, seatbelt use, and awareness of distracted driving, aiming for a safer holiday season on the roads.  

Listen here for the full conversation: