With the holiday season fast approaching, the atmosphere is filled with warmth, joy, and numerous festivities often marked by the consumption of alcohol. This time of year, however, also sees a significant increase in road accidents related to drunk driving. AWSR, the organization spearheading the campaign for safer roads in Belgium, emphasizes the importance of a resolution for zero alcohol when driving, as December traditionally records the highest proportion of alcohol-related accidents.
To combat this, the emphasis is on celebrating without alcohol if you’re driving. Alcohol consumption is notably high at home or restaurant events, making it challenging to limit intake when one needs to drive afterwards. The end-of-year festivities, a time of letting loose and carefree joy, further increase alcohol consumption, particularly in December and January.
A crucial resolution for the season and year-round is 0% alcohol when driving. The euphoria of celebration and alcohol can dangerously impair judgment, with drivers underestimating risks and overestimating their abilities. Even a single drink can increase accident risks, escalating dramatically with more consumption.
To aid this initiative, the AWSR will distribute 20,000 single-use breathalyzers at major Christmas markets in Wallonia on December 9 and 16. This enables those who struggle to keep their no-alcohol resolution to test themselves and make safer choices.
Throughout December and mid-January, road signs and social media messages will remind drivers of the importance of abstaining from alcohol if they need to drive. A radio campaign will also run during the holiday season to encourage this vital resolution.
Additionally, providing non-alcoholic beverages during these celebrations is essential. This message will be promoted on 150 digital screens at various supermarkets in Wallonia to encourage the purchase of non-alcoholic drinks for festive meals.
Find more from AWSR (Agence Wallonne pour la Sécurité Routière) (Belgium, December 2023)
Alcohol Awareness 