Messages about designated driving are working to lower drunken driving crashes. That's according to the director of the state's office of highway safety.
Bill Bell admits, though, the drop in recent years has been slim. "It's come down a little bit each year, fractionally," said Bell.
Bell says Kentucky registers about 25-thousand arrests each year for driving under the influence. He says alcohol related fatalities make up about 20 percent of all highway deaths annually.
Bell says designating a sober driver is crucial to reducing injuries and deaths. "It's prevention and prevention cost a lot less than dealing with the aftermath of an alcohol related crash," added Bell.
He says more smart phone apps are being developed to address drunken driving concerns. "It will work on anybody's smart phone. It will allow you to find a ride of a local cab service. Also, we are adding a feature where you can text a friend, if you need a safe ride home as well," explained Bell.
Bell participated in an event in Lexington Thursday to draw attention to the upcoming state police sponsored 'Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over' enforcement campaign. ?
