As Thanksgiving approaches, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is collaborating with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving. The agencies are emphasizing that “Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving” and urging people to plan for a sober ride, whether traveling locally or across the state.
The night before Thanksgiving is recognized as a particularly risky time on the roads due to social gatherings and increased alcohol consumption. CTDOT highlights the importance of arranging transportation in advance, such as designating a sober driver, using public transit, rideshares, or taxis.
Data from Connecticut show that between 2020 and 2024, there were 83 crashes involving impaired drivers during the Thanksgiving holiday period—defined as the Wednesday before Thanksgiving through the following Monday—which resulted in 76 injuries and eight fatalities.
National statistics indicate that from 2019 to 2023, there were 868 deaths caused by drunk-driving crashes during Thanksgiving holidays. In 2023 alone, 174 people died in such incidents over Thanksgiving weekend, with those aged 21–34 representing the largest group among fatalities.
“Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and celebration – but if you don’t celebrate safely, lives can be changed in an instant,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Even small amounts of alcohol can impair your ability to drive. Planning ahead for a sober ride home helps ensure the holiday season is a time of gratitude, not tragedy.”
CTDOT advises several steps for safe travel: designate a sober driver before celebrations begin; use alternative transportation options; prevent friends from driving after drinking by taking their keys; and report suspected drunk drivers to law enforcement.
“As they patrol state roads and highways, Connecticut State Troopers are always on the lookout for impaired drivers. We ask the public to be our partners in public safety and call 911 if they suspect an impaired operator on the road – this is a true emergency and warrants an immediate response from law enforcement,” said Connecticut State Police Commanding Officer Colonel Daniel Loughman. “Thanksgiving is not only a time for gathering with family and friends, but also to ensure that safety remains a priority on the road.”
“Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel times of the year. Connecticut police urge everyone to help keep our roadways safe by driving sober or choosing a designated driver,” said Watertown Police Chief and Chairman of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association Traffic Safety Committee Josh Bernegger.
For more information about impaired driving risks, visit nhsta.gov.
