Transportation leaders gather in Philipsburg ahead of holiday driving season
PHILIPSBURG – Local and state officials gathered at Coal Stream Dam Park in Philipsburg on Thursday, Nov. 6 to promote sober driving during the upcoming holiday season.
State Dept. of Transportation District 2 Safety Press Officer Steve Harmic and District 9 Safety Press Officer Monica Owens, as well as Highway Safety Network Community Traffic Safety Project Coordinator Josh Woods gathered in the park in front of a hearse provided by Dahlgren-Spewock Funeral Home of Philipsburg. State Troopers were also on hand along with Regional DUI Program Administrator Maggie Nunley.
The group’s “Choose Your Ride” event offered members of the media and the public a close-up look at a PSP patrol car and the hearse – symbols of modes of transportation that one may find themselves in if they choose to drink and drive.
“Driving while impaired is a serious and preventable threat to our roadways,” Nunley said. “We hope that by pulling together these different types of rides that the visual will hit home and get everyone to take their choices seriously. The public has every right to travel without fearing for their safety because of the reckless choices made by impaired drivers. While there is never a good time for tragedy to strike, it’s especially heartbreaking for it to occur during this time of year. That’s why we’re stressing to everyone the importance of wearing seat belts and driving sober during the holiday season.”
While the holiday season is a time to celebrate for many, instances of impaired driving can rise substantially. The official holiday season DUI reporting period runs from Thanksgiving through the day after New Year’s Day. Last year between Nov. 28, and Jan. 2, 2025, the state reported 857 alcohol-related crashes that resulted in 18 fatalities and 542 injuries. Drug-related crashes from the same time totaled 307 resulting in 13 fatalities and 267 injuries.
In Centre County, there were two alcohol-related crashes with one injury, and one drug-related crash resulting in one injury.
Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Jacob Rhymestine said, “Don’t let one bad decision ruin the celebration. If you plan on drinking, make sure you have a safe ride home. Whether it’s a designated driver, public transportation, or a rideshare, planning ahead can save lives.
“Additionally, along with thousands of dollars in fines, towing fees, impound fees, and court costs, there may be social ramifications. There will be court appearances, community service requirements, or jail time, leading to lost time and lost wages — possibly costing you your job. A DUI conviction can also impede attempts to get a job.”
Woods offered responsible party hosting tips for those planning to host a party and those planning to attend a party.
He said, “If you’re the designated driver, take the job seriously. If you’re hosting the party, provide water or other non-alcoholic beverage options such as mocktails for designated drivers. If you know someone has been consuming alcohol and they try to leave, take their keys and help them get home safely, or offer to let them spend the night.”
