Valentine's Day Gift - Being the Designated Sober Driver

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Feb. 11, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Valentine's Day is one of the most feel-good holidays of the year, full of love, roses, and candy hearts everywhere you look. No matter what you choose to do on that special day, from a group date with friends to a romantic dinner with your significant other, the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) encourages you to keep the memories pleasant. Nothing can ruin an evening like getting a DUI or causing a crash. Plan ahead and designate a sober driver, or better yet, spread the love by being the designated sober driver for others.

"Wine, champagne and spirits often play a celebratory role during Valentine's Day dinners in restaurants across the nation," said OTS Acting Director Russia Chavis. "It's important to remember that buzzed driving is considered drunk driving, so even if you're planning on having a just couple of drinks with dinner, make sure and have a designated sober driver lined up to take you home."

Having a sober driver is just the first step in keeping the night safe and memorable. Continue with everyone using their seat belts, putting away the cell phones, following the rules of the road, and keeping an eye out for dangerous drivers.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2012, more than 10,000 people died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes – that accounts for one every 51 minutes. Over 800 of those died on California roadways.

Whatever your plans this Valentine's Day, the California Office of Traffic Safety wishes you a holiday full of love and happiness. Join us on Twitter at @OTS_CA or "like" us at www.facebook.com/CaliforniaOTS and keep up with the latest traffic safety information. For more information on all OTS efforts, visit www.OTS.ca.gov.