Coalition promotes sober driver program

The Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety wants to remind those who plan to drink alcohol this holiday season to designate a sober driver or call a cab to avoid driving impaired.

Statewide, law enforcement is on the lookout for impaired drivers, with targeted enforcement efforts Dec. 15 to Jan. 2.

"We want everyone to enjoy a safe and happy holiday season," says Leanna Depue, executive chairwoman of the coalition.

"So we are making a special effort to reach motorists with reminders to plan ahead with ads online and at locations where alcohol is served or sold."

Throughout December, safety advertising in restaurants and bars will remind patrons to "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over." Posters featuring a Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper announce, "Going Out Tonight? So Are We."

This simple message reminds drivers that law enforcement will be out in full force, and if they choose to drink and drive, they will be arrested.

Save MO Lives social media outlets will also be asking followers to post and tweet their safe ride home.

Selected winners will receive Best Buy gift cards for their participation.

Six people were killed and 46 seriously injured over the Christmas holiday 2012. Three of the fatalities and eight of the serious injuries involved an impaired driver.

To learn more, visit savemolives.com, or find the coalition on Facebook and Twitter at Save MO Lives, #DriveSoberMO.