Berkeley County, SC – As Christmas celebrations ramp up across Berkeley County, sheriff’s deputies are urging drivers to make sober travel plans and stay focused on the road during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
According to the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, alcohol-impaired driving remains a serious concern during the holiday season, particularly in December when social gatherings and late-night travel increase. Deputies emphasized that distracted and impaired driving can quickly turn festive plans into tragedy.
The sheriff’s office highlighted recent data showing that drivers ages 21 to 34 accounted for the highest percentage — 27% — of alcohol-impaired drivers involved in fatal traffic crashes in December 2023. Officials say the statistic underscores the importance of planning ahead before heading out to holiday events.
“Buckle up, put phones away, and keep your eyes on the road,” the sheriff’s office wrote in a holiday safety message, encouraging drivers to stay calm, sober, and alert behind the wheel.
The message is part of the department’s ongoing Target Zero initiative, which aims to eliminate traffic-related deaths through education, enforcement, and community awareness. Deputies are reminding residents that even short trips can carry serious risks if alcohol is involved.
Officials recommend arranging a designated driver, using a taxi or rideshare service, or staying overnight rather than driving impaired — even if the trip is just a few miles. Extra patrols and DUI enforcement efforts are common during holiday periods across Berkeley County and the Charleston metro region.
With Christmas Eve and Christmas Day travel expected to increase on local roads and highways, deputies urge residents to prioritize safety so everyone can make it home.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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