NY Red Ribbon Campaign Against Drunk Driving Kicks Off

The New York State Thruway Authority, in collaboration with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and New York State Police Troop T has kicked off its 29th Annual Red Ribbon Campaign.

To mark the annual campaign, Thruway toll collectors will hand out red ribbons at select toll facilities along the Thruway to promote awareness about the dangers of driving while intoxicated.

In addition, Thruway Service Area concessionaires will provide complimentary coffee on New Year’s Eve.

“The holidays are one of the most dangerous times on the roadways due to more people traveling, an increased number of festivities where alcohol is served, and a surge in drunk driving,” said Richard Mallow, Executive Director of MADD New York State.

During last year’s holiday, 13 people were killed in vehicle crashes in New York, and 702 people were arrested for DWI, state officials said.

The ribbons are being distributed to motorists upon entry at the following Thruway locations: exit 15 (NJ I-287 South); exit 17 (Newburgh); exit 24 (Albany); exit B3 (NY Route 22 - Mass Pike); exit 34A (Syracuse - I-481); exit 36 (Watertown - Binghamton); exit 39 (Syracuse - I-690); exit 46 (Rochester - Corning); and exit 55 (Lackawanna).

In addition to participating in the ribbon handout, the Thruway Authority will be posting MADD’s reminder to “Drive Safely, Stay Sober” on variable message signs throughout the system.

New York State Police Troop T are conducting specialized patrols and a fixed checkpoint in undisclosed locations along the Thruway during the holiday season, joining all state and local police for the annual crackdown on drunk and distracted driving.

“This time of year should be celebratory and festive, but not at the expense of motorists’ safety and well-being,” said New York State Thruway Authority Executive Director Robert L. Megna in a prepared statement. “We are proud to partner once again with MADD and State Police Troop T in the Red Ribbon Campaign and emphasize the importance of staying safe and sober while on the roads this holiday season.”

MADD’s Red Ribbon Campaign is a visible reminder to the public to plan ahead for a designated driver before celebrations begin, Mallow said. “ By displaying the ribbons on their vehicles, drivers show their commitment to protecting the public from the dangers of impaired driving and their support of law enforcement’s efforts. MADD knows that it takes more than just a few people making safe choices to ensure everyone’s safety on the roads this holiday season and beyond. We urge adults to lead by example and help spread the message of planning ahead for a designated non-drinking driver when celebrations include alcohol. MADD is honored to join with the Thruway Authority and New York State Police to help make our roadways safer and prevent tragedies during the holiday season and year-round.”

The Red Ribbon Campaign is MADD’s longest running and most visible public awareness project. The foot-long red ribbons, a symbol chosen by MADD in 1986, are meant to be displayed on motorists’ vehicles to raise public awareness regarding the dangers of impaired driving as well as to encourage all motorists to take the pledge of driving safe, sober and buckled up at all times.

Nationwide Insurance is the National Presenting Sponsor for MADD’s Red Ribbon Campaign.

New York State Police Superintendent Joseph A. D’Amico said, “The holiday season is a time for family, friends and celebration, so it’s critically important to remind people never to get behind the wheel after drinking. Drunk and impaired driving is a choice that kills hundreds and injures thousands in our state each year. We are proud to join with our partners at MADD and the Thruway Authority to encourage motorists to make the right choice and drive sober and safely this holiday season.”

The Thruway Authority and MADD would like to give special thanks to Albany County STOP-DWI, Students at Battenkill Community Services, Colonie Youth Court, Mohonasen School/Work Program, Berne Knox-Westerlo School, Wildwood programs and all of the MADD volunteers who helped assemble the ribbons and cards for this year’s campaign.

MADD was established in 1980 to advocate safe driving. The national organization has more than 600 affiliates nationwide, with 18 chapters throughout New York State. MADD focuses on finding effective solutions to the problems of drunk driving and underage drinking, as well as supporting those who have suffered from the consequences of both.

For more information about MADD, please see the website www.madd.org.