RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — As Virginians head out to celebrate New Year’s Eve, officials are urging everyone to make safety a top priority and avoid driving under the influence. AAA is reminding drivers to plan ahead before celebrating. Options like using a rideshare or taxi, choosing a designated driver or staying overnight at the celebration location can help prevent dangerous situations on the road. “We don't want someone getting to the end of the evening when they've been drinking now, making poor decisions and deciding to risk it by getting on the roadway,” said spokesperson Morgan Dean. According to AAA, 4,931 drivers were killed in alcohol-related crashes between 2019 and 2023, with 1,038 deaths occurring in 2023 alone. Officials warned that impaired judgment late in the evening often leads to risky decisions behind the wheel. Those traveling in groups are encouraged to look out for one another and step in if someone who has been drinking attempts to drive.  “Be on the lookout for others that may not be making good decisions,” Dean said. “Grabbing keys even though you've seen them drink and say, ‘Why don't you just get in the car with us? You can come back, get your car tomorrow.’” AAA also cautions that walking while impaired can be dangerous, as distracted or unsteady pedestrians are at higher risk of being struck by vehicles, especially in low visibility. “If you see an impaired driver on the road, they are a danger to you, to everybody in your vehicle and everybody else in and around that roadway,” Dean said. The message is simple: plan ahead, stay alert and make responsible choices to ensure a safe start to the new year. ...read more read less