Be careful on the road

This is just a reminder to all who drive. I guess that means almost everyone. Be careful out there or as my daughter would say, "Drive carefully." The holidays can be a hectic time for all of us. So in the interest of public safety and because being pro-life is a practical approach to day-to-day existence, here are some pointers.

1. Drive defensively.
2. Drive the speed limit.
3. Do not drink and drive.
4. Wear your seat belt.
5. Avoid talking on the cell phone while driving.
6. If you are between the age of 16 and 22,
a. Avoid being out after 11:00 pm;
b. Avoid having other young people in the car;
c. Avoid having the radio on especially at night;
d. Pay attention to the road and ignore conversations in the car.
7. Make sure you have a full tank of of gas.
8. Check your tires.
9. Avoid driving if you are tired or if you have been taking medication.

All of these suggestions are just common sense. But there are many people who forget to think and pay attention.

Another point to make. If the driver is under the legal age to drink and is stopped for any reason, and has been drinking - even if he is not impaired - in many states his privilege to drive may be suspended until he becomes an adult or in some states for up to two years. These are strong incentives for young people not to drink and then drive.

As for adults, just because the person may not seem to "feel" the effects of alcohol, does not mean that he may not meet the statutory minimum Breath alcohol concentration in his state. Since most states opted for US federal highway funds, it is more likely than not the state law prohibits having a BAC of .08 within two hours of driving. So make sure there is a designated driver for you if you decide to drink. Or plan on having a cab take you home. It is a whole lot less expensive than being pulled over for DUI.