Assemblywoman Destito encourages students to take the Arrive Alive pledge

April 8, 2010 -- Assemblywoman RoAnn M. Destito (D-Rome) is promoting safe driving during prom season by encouraging prom-going teenagers and their parents to sign the Arrive Alive pledge.

By signing the pledge, students promise not to drink and drive or accept a ride from someone who has been drinking, while parents agree to provide a ride at anytime during the night − no questions asked – if the child calls for a ride.

“As parents we need to make sure that our children are aware of the dangers and consequences of underage drinking and driving,” said Assemblywoman Destito. “Taking the Arrive Alive pledge is simple and it could mean the difference between life and death. I am urging all students and their families to take the pledge and make a commitment to staying safe.”

Assemblywoman Destito noted that according to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), in 2008, 54.7 percent of 12th-graders and 37.7 percent of 10th-graders report having tried alcohol, and 18 percent of eighth-graders report having been drunk at least once[1].

In addition, in 2004, during weekends around prom season, graduation and homecoming, a startling 47 percent of traffic crash fatalities of drivers ages 15-20 were alcohol-related. Of these fatalities, 69 percent involved a driver with alcohol in his or her system[2].

“Maintaining an open dialogue and discussing alternative options to drinking alcohol or getting into a car with an intoxicated driver can mean the difference between life and death,” Destito said. “This promise between parents and teens will help ensure that they can look back on prom night with fond memories, not with grief of a tragedy.”

To receive a copy of the Arrive Alive pledge, contact Assemblywoman Destito’s office at   (315) 732-1055 or via e-mail at destitr@assembly.state.ny.us.