Lt. Governor Anthony Brown Announces Program to Provide Free Taxi Rides for July 4 Weekend to Combat Drunk Driving
Baltimore (June 26, 2008) – Lt. Governor Anthony Brown announced the third annual Tipsy?Taxi! Campaign designed to combat drunk driving, especially on holidays that are associated with excessive alcohol-consumption.
The initiative will begin on Thursday, July 3rd from 8 p.m. – 4 a.m., and will continue on Friday, July 4th and Saturday, July 5th from 4 p.m. – 4 a.m. The program will provide a free taxi ride to those at least 21 years old, who have been drinking at a restaurant or bar in Baltimore City.
Those wishing to utilize the service must call 1-877-963-TAXI and Yellow Cab will provide a safe and free ride (up to $50.00) home within the Baltimore metropolitan area. Balances exceeding $50.00 must be paid for by the occupant.
The program is a partnership involving AAA Mid-Atlantic, The Maryland State Highway Administration and the Yellow Cab Company.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 659 traffic related fatalities over the 4th of July holiday in 2006. Of that number, 37 percent involved a motorist with a blood alcohol concentration over the legal limit.
The free cab ride program provided more than 700 free rides on various holidays since the program’s inception. Last year, it provided more than 100 free rides during the July 4th weekend.
Those enjoying 4th of July festivities in a Baltimore bar or restaurant during the July 4th weekend are encouraged to call 1-877-963-TAXI (8294) for a safe and free cab ride home.
