MADD encourages cyclists to tie one one for safety!

Posted 12/16/22

MADD Florida is partnering with cyclists’ stores and clubs across the state to distribute free #TieOneOnForSafety red ribbons.

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MADD encourages cyclists to tie one one for safety!

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Mothers Against Drunk Driving® (MADD) Florida is partnering with cyclists’ stores and clubs across the state to distribute free #TieOneOnForSafety red ribbons for cyclists to tie on their bikes. The ribbons are a reminder to always designate a non-impaired driver if your plans include alcohol. Although the Tie One On for Safety campaign is celebrating its 36th anniversary, it is the first time MADD Florida partners with the cycling community to bring awareness during the holidays.

“While most people associate MADD with only vehicles, vulnerable roadway users such as cyclist make up an alarming number of the victims that we serve and advocate for and that is why we are working to create a safer Florida for everyone who shares the road”, said Larry Coggins, regional executive director. In Florida in 2021, there were 6,403 crashes involving a bike that resulted in 195 fatalities and 5,958 serious injuries.

MADD encourages everyone in Florida to show their commitment to keeping themselves and their communities safe and always choosing a non-drinking, unimpaired driver. “Whether you’re going out to holiday festivities or hosting a party, always remember your designated driver,” said Claudia Machado, program manager. For safe party tips, visit https://madd.org/drunk-driving/safe-party-guide/https://madd.org/drunk-driving/safe-party-guide/.

The holidays are among the most dangerous times on our nation’s roadways, with more people traveling, an increased number of events where alcohol is served and a surge in drunk driving. Between 6 p.m. Thanksgiving Eve through New Year’s Eve in 2020, there were 1,133 lives lost to drunk driving across the country, accounting for 30 percent of all traffic deaths, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In addition, a new study by NHTSA shows an alarming 7% increase in alcohol-related crashes in the first quarter of 2022 compared to 2021.

With so many options today such as Uber and Lyft, taxis and public transportation there is no excuse to drive while impaired alcohol or other drugs.

Since 1986 MADD has helped to make the “designated driver” a household name through its longest-running annual public awareness campaign, Tie One On for Safety. This red ribbon campaign happens annually during November and December. December is also National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, a designation proclaimed by every U.S. President since 1981.

MADD thanks all law enforcement personnel who will be working harder than ever this holiday season to protect the public from drunk driving through increased patrols and Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement efforts. MADD appreciates their enforcement through high-visibility checkpoints and saturation patrols to keep our roadways safe.

MADD is grateful for the partnership of its National Tie One On for Safety presenting sponsor, Waymo. Because of the work of strategic partners like Waymo, MADD is confident that reaching a future of NO MORE VICTIMS is attainable. But to get there, we will need everyone to join in our lifesaving work by making plans before the festivities begin, designating a non-drinking, non-consuming driver and buckling up this holiday season.

To learn more about Tie One On for Safety and pick up your red ribbon in Florida, please email Claudia.Machado@madd.org.

MADD, Mother's Against Drunk Driving, cycling, biking

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