As part of its ongoing efforts to curb drunk driving, Uber will be taking part in Sunday’s HERO Walk, sponsored by the John R. Elliott HERO Campaign for Designated Drivers.

The walk brings together more than 1,500 supporters in Ocean City, NJ to support drunk driving prevention.

Uber will take a number of significant steps surrounding the walk, including asking its driver-partners to take the “HERO Pledge” to become or use a designated driver. Uber drivers will then be directed to areas of increased demand on weekend nights to ensure rides are available for anyone in need of a designated driver.

To date, more than 1,000 drivers have taken the pledge. Uber will also be donating $1,000 to the cause.

Independent studies have shown that Uber’s presence has served to reduce drunk driving in the areas in which they operate.

The HERO Campaign was established by the family of Navy Ensign John Elliott of Egg Harbor Township, NJ. Ensign Elliott was killed in a collision with a drunken driver in July 2000, two months after graduating from the United States Naval Academy. John was traveling from Annapolis, MD to his home at the Jersey Shore for his mother’s birthday celebration at the time of his death.

The HERO Campaign has grown from a local cause into a national movement that has been adopted by seven states from Boston, MA to Louisville, KY. The organization uses highway billboards, TV and radio commercials, and educational programs to promote its message, “Be a HERO. Be a Designated Driver,” in partnership with schools and colleges, law enforcement, highway safety agencies, Major League Baseball and NFL teams, NASCAR, Churchill Downs and Keeneland race courses, and bars and taverns.

Source: Cape May County Herald  |  October 9,2015