FORT LEE, Va. (Dec. 15, 2016) -- December is National Drunk and Drugged Driving Awareness Prevention Month, also known as 3D Month.

It's a time when communities join a national coalition to conduct public information and enforcement campaigns to prevent impaired driving.

The coalition, a public-private sector partnership, provides a focus for communities interested in participating in National 3D Prevention Month by sponsoring national campaign activities.

In December and throughout the year, safety agencies across America work together to reduce deaths and injuries from vehicle crashes due to impaired driving. Reportedly, alcohol-impaired driving fatalities declined in the past 10 years by 21 percent. Nevertheless, in 2014 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 9,967 people were killed in alcohol-impaired driving crashes.

The safety partners on Fort Lee stand with all those who have known the tragic consequences of drunk or drugged driving, and pledge to work together to reduce deaths and injuries from automotive crashes due to impaired driving.

December is a busy holiday travel time, and celebrations often involve alcohol. All have to partner to spread the word about the dangers of impaired driving. Army Substance Abuse Program/Substance Use Disorders Clinical Care works with installation safety and other community organizations to warn of the dangers of driving while impaired during this month in particular. This is an excellent time for everyone to encourage safe and sober driving.

Driving under the influence of drugs is illegal, and just as deadly and dangerous as driving drunk. If you drive impaired by drugs -- even if it is a legal prescription medication -- you can possibly be arrested for DUI. Be safe and sober.

For more information, contact the ASAP/SUDCC, building 8135, or call Mary Claiborne at (804) 734-9693.

Happy holiday season.