Drunk driving kills thousands of Americans each year. It is a catastrophe of responsibility that affects families and communities, and can make a parent’s worst nightmare a vivid reality.

The good news is these tragedies are entirely preventable. All it takes is a HERO to step up and offer their service as a designated driver.

First, let’s consider these facts from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

• More than 10,000 Americans die each year from alcohol-impaired vehicle crashes.
• An average drunk driver has driven 80 times before their first arrest.
• One in three people will be involved in an alcohol-related crash in their life.

While the report showed drunk driving fatalities having fallen by a third in the past 30 years, there is still clearly work to be done to eliminate drunk driving and prevent these senseless tragedies. Such a plight calls for proactive measures.

The best way to do that is to be proactive. Plan ahead by asking a friend or family member to be your designated driver.

At the heart of our HERO Campaign is the Designated Driver Pledge. By taking the pledge and encouraging your friends and family to do the same, you can make a difference and save lives! Your pledge could mean one less roadside memorial, one less crying mother and one less statistic.

Take the pledge today and remember: you can be a HERO to so many for doing something so easy!