For Immediate Release

Contact:

Steve Schoeffel

Ph: 217-836-6773

Steve@DanRutherford.org 

If You’re Going To Drink, Don’t Drive.

Secretary of State Candidate Rutherford Cautions Holiday Drivers

Pontiac, IL – State Senator Dan Rutherford, Republican candidate for Secretary of State, is urging Illinois drivers to be responsible drivers to keep themselves, friends and family, and other drivers and pedestrians safe during the 4^th of July weekend. 

“I want the citizens of Illinois to have a fantastic Independence Day,” said Rutherford.  “We can do that while still being responsible drivers.  If you’re going to drink, don’t drive.  Period.  The legal Blood Alcohol Content a driver is judged too drunk to drive is just .08.  Don’t take any chances,” he said. “Arrange for a designated driver or cab.  Not only do you keep yourself safe, you avoid putting those around you in danger.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over the course of a ten year study, July 4^th had one of the highest numbers of speed-related vehicle crashes of all holidays.  According to the Illinois State Police, thirty-nine percent of fatal crashes involved alcohol, and, as a rule, adults can begin feeling the affects of alcohol with as few as two 12 oz. beers, two 3 oz. glasses of wine or 1 to 2 oz. of 86-proof liquor and can be well over the legal limit after just three of any of those.

The roads are packed with travelers on the 4th, and Sen. Rutherford suggests drivers stay patient with those with whom they share the road.

“A vehicle full of kids, high temperatures, long drives, or an inconsiderate or dangerous fellow driver can stretch some to the limits of their restraint,” Rutherford said.  “We all just need to remember that the most important part of the trip is keeping everyone safe on the way to and on the way back from our destinations.  Plan for delays, leave earlier so you’re not rushed, and avoid distractions,” he added.  “The potential exists for major problems on the congested roads around a holiday like the 4^th, but drivers focused on safety can make our roads much safer if we just use some common sense and act responsibly.”

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High resolution headshots available at www.DanRutherford.org

A copy of our report filed with the State Board of Elections is (or will be) available for purchase from the State Board of Elections, Springfield, IL.  Dan Rutherford Campaign Committee, Chairman Collins Miller, Treasurer Rex Schaefer.