A new study shows South Carolina is one of the most dangerous places to drive in the nation on New Year’s Eve.
The SafeWise study looked at data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. South Carolina was ranked second in the nation for the most drunk driving deaths in 2017.
North Carolina came in at number 15, according to the study.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol rolled out its “Sober or Slammer!” campaign in December as a way to encourage drivers to make a plan for a safe ride home from holiday parties and celebrations.
The highway patrol reports nearly half of all fatal crashes in South Carolina involve an impaired driver, with an average of 300 people dying each year on South Carolina roadways as a result of impaired driving.
The highway patrol will conduct a series of public safety checkpoints throughout the state during the New Year’s holiday period as a way to crack down on impaired driving.
Drivers hoping to ensure a safe ride home can designate a sober driver, use public transportation, call a cab or use a ride-share app.