Thurston County proclaims December as Impaired Driving Prevention month

Thurston county’s Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) designated December as Impaired Driving Prevention Month at a meeting yesterday, December 12.

The proclamation resolution stated: “The Board of Health hereby proclaims December as Impaired Driving Prevention Month in Thurston County and urges all individuals in Thurston County to keep roadways safe by supporting enforcement and education efforts that raise driver understanding of the risks of impaired driving, and how to make responsible decisions that ensure the safety of all.”

Disease Control and Prevention Division Director Erin Birklid said that although December is a festive season, cases of impaired driving rise significantly during this month.

“December is a month when, unfortunately, the statistics of impaired driving rise significantly. While a beacon of joy for many, [it] can be a trying time for those grappling with substance use disorder,” Birklid added. "It is essential to remember the crucial aspect of our collective responsibility.”

Getting help

Tara Tshelana, Manager of Target Zero, said that traffic fatalities in the state increased to 37% over the last five years.

Birklid also addressed the public, saying resources are available through the Washington recovery helpline at 866-789-1511, where she says “they are committed to helping those in need stay sober during this period and beyond.”

“The harsh reality is that driving under the influence remains a leading cause of related fatalities and is increasing annually,” said Birklid. “Impaired Driving Prevention Month is not just a title –it is a call to action. It is a mission to spread awareness educate the public about the risks of impaired driving, and to encourage individuals to make responsible decisions before getting behind the wheel.”

Washington Traffic Safety Commission has a program called Target Zero, which aims to reduce traffic fatalities and severe injuries from collisions to zero by 2030. 

Tara Tshelana, Target Zero’s manager, said that impaired driving is a topic that demands attention, as it not only jeopardizes the safety of individuals on the road but also poses a significant threat to the well-being of the community as a whole.

Tshelana shared that there has been a 37% increase in traffic fatalities in the state over the last five years – up from 539 in 2018 to 740 last year – and over half of the fatalities involved an impaired driver.

“Impaired driving, whether due to alcohol or other drugs or a combination of both, continues to be a pressing concern that transcends boundaries and affects people from all walks of life. The consequences are devastating, causing loss of life, irreversible injuries, and profound impact on the families left behind,” said Tshelana.

Thurston’s Board of County Commissioners proclaimed December as Impaired Driving Prevention Month at a meeting yesterday, December 12.