Organization hopes to lessen impaired driving deaths

SHREVEPORT, La. (KSLA) - The last week of January is known as National Passenger Safety Week, and one organization is encouraging people to speak up when a driver is intoxicated or distracted.

Passengers make up 62% of traffic deaths. This issue is becoming more critical as deaths on roadways continue to spike. The group We Save Lives says it’s important for passengers to say something if they feel uncomfortable with someone driving.

Nearly 27,000 people died on the roads in 2021. We Save Lives founder and President Candace Lightner said their goal is to lessen that number.

”I think being scared to speak up is one thing, but more are worried about losing the friendship or the relationship. The truth is, if that was a true friendship, they wouldn’t be driving, drunk, drugged or distracted.”

Lightner said there are always other options to get home, like a cab or ride-share service. She said if you are going to be drinking, another option is to set a designated driver who will stay sober.

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