BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) -- If your New Year’s Eve plans involve drinking, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency said it is important to have a plan in place to get home safely.
Birmingham police will not be the only ones looking for impaired drivers on the road Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. The ALEA will have extra troopers on patrol as well. The ALEA stresses the importance of having a game plan in place before leaving your home.
“Well, my game plan is yes, a few alcoholic beverages," said Birmingham resident Eric Durkins. "But also, I’m going to have a designated driver, or I will get in a Lyft or Uber or a cab."
Durkins is looking forward to celebrating the new year, but he also wants to do so safely. He’s in good company.
Jordan McEliath also plans to go out to ring in the new year.
“Yes, I do have a safe way to get home," McEliath said. "I’ll be using a designated driver. So yes, that’s the right way to go.”
Parker Vanderkamp is staying home Tuesday evening but offers the following advice to others who may be heading out to celebrate.
“I would say share your location with friends and family and always Uber and watch your limit," Vanderkamp said. "Don’t drink too much.”
ALEA Senior Trooper Vu Quang said the agency will have extra patrols on the roads looking for impaired drivers.
“To be successful is to make sure that we have a plan,” Quang said.
“Making sure you have a sober designated drive -- somebody who is willing to sacrifice not having a drink tonight and making sure everyone gets home safely,” Quang continued.
Quang said utilizing ride share apps is also an option.
“We want everybody to go out and have a good time,” Quang said. “We just ask everybody to make sure that you stay responsible for your safety and for everybody else’s safety out here.”
If you are out on the roads and your car becomes disabled, Quang said you should put on your hazards, and you can call *HP, and your call will be directed to the state troopers dispatch. It will send the nearest available trooper to your location.