"Designated Driver Program" gets increased visibility in Fargo

Project Characteristics Program Areas Increased visibility of Designated Driver Program Impaired Driving Targeted Audience Jurisdiction Bar Patrons Liquor Retailers Community

Goals

• Reduce alcohol related injury and fatality crashes
• Reduce DUI arrests
• Increase community participation the Designated Driver Program

Strategies

The Alcohol Committee of the Red River Valley Safe Communities Coalition felt the Designated Driver message needed resurgence in the community. This came as a result of the high attendance level at the Victim Impact Panel, as well as the elevated number of DUI arrests. A postcard survey was conducted to gather information on the practices currently in place and to determine which establishments would be willing to participate in the Designated Driver Program. In an effort to obtain a high survey return rate, a $50 gift certificate was awarded to the driver who collected the most surveys. The participating establishments received signage advertising the program, cab ride vouchers and buttons for the servers.

The cost to the Coalition was minimal. The Coalition printed and mailed the surveys and the beer distributors collected them. The Coalition purchased the $50 gift certificate. The Coalition also paid for the printing costs for the cab vouchers along with the City of Fargo. The liquor distributors provided the signage, survey creation, survey collection, money for cab rides; and buttons for the servers.

Results

• Liquor establishments and patrons have become more cognizant of the designated driver message.
• More establishments are aware of the program and are seeking involvement
• All distributors involved in the projects are aiming for expansion
• Establishments expressed an interest in contributing more financially and seeing new ideas implemented
• The Coalition has developed a relationship with, and gained the support and respect of, the distributors and liquor establishments