Hancock County Sheriff’s Department Capt. Robert Harris
HANCOCK COUNTY — The two largest law enforcement agencies in the county say they will be out in full force, just like always, on New Year’s Eve to make sure drivers are not traveling impaired this holiday weekend.
Safety statistics show there are 71% more crashes with drugs or alcohol as a contributing factor between Dec. 31 at 6 p.m. and Jan. 1 at 6 a.m. In the 12-hour period, alcohol- and drug-related car crashes skyrocket, officials say.
One of the biggest things those planning to get out and about on New Year’s Eve can do for themselves and others is to plan a ride in advance. On average, driving accidents rise during the holidays, so it’s crucial to have a safe ride on a night when so many people are out and about, officials say.
“We aren’t planning to do anything special for New Years Eve, but of course we will have officers patrolling and looking for signs of intoxicated drivers,” Deputy Chief of the Greenfield Police Department Charles McMichael said.
He noted county drivers appear to be prepared during the holidays as they only had one arrest overnight last year for operating while intoxicated.
“We hope that number continues to stay low,” he said.
The GPD statement for safe driving McMichael noted is the same as every other day of the year:
“Please have a designated driver if you intend to drink alcohol. Alcohol lowers your inhibitions and gives false impressions of abilities. You may think you are okay to drive, but in reality you are not. Always plan ahead and have a ride lined up before you start drinking, or plan to stay the night. There are several ride-share apps in our area as well.”
The worst thing in the world for law enforcement is having to wake someone up in the middle of the night to tell them their loved one was in a crash, McMichael said.
“Think of those you love before putting yourself, and everyone else on the road, at risk,” he said. “It’s just not worth it.”
Each year, drunk driving is involved in more than 120 traffic fatalities (on average) during the New Year’s holiday, which represents 40 percent of the total traffic fatalities during the holiday period (2009–2019), according to Indiana.gov. Whether hosting or attending a New Year’s celebration, make a resolution to celebrate it responsibly and safely, officials warn.
Hancock County Sheriff’s Department Captain Robert Harris offered the same advice as McMichael to be smart and stay sharp.
“New Year’s Eve is a popular night for people to attend large parties that usually involve alcohol,” Harris said. “We want to make sure everyone has a safe, fun evening and arrives home without incident.”
Harris noted the HCSD is advising citizens to arrange transportation ahead of time to avoid last-minute attempts to find a ride after consuming alcohol. Harris said ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are good options, but may not have many cars available, have long wait times, or charge surge prices because of the holiday, so if a person has not planned ahead, come up with another option before thinking about drinking and driving.
“Some organizations may offer reduced fare or free rides home,” Harris said.
The HCSD will be out in force conducting traffic stops and watching for impaired drivers, something they do daily.
“Have fun, but be responsible. No one wants to start off the new year in jail or a hospital,” Harris said.
