Memorial Day Weekend: Preventing DUIs in South Carolina

Why Designated Drivers and Responsible Choices Can Save Lives

Contact:
Jimmy Mount
jmount@osus.bhdd.sc.gov

Columbia, SC – May 21, 2025 – As the Memorial Day weekend approaches, the South Carolina Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, through its Office of Substance Use Services (OSUS), is urging residents to take steps to prevent impaired driving. For many, the holiday marks the start of summer celebrations, but it also brings a troubling spike in alcohol-related crashes and fatalities.

"Memorial Day should be a time of reflection and togetherness – not devastation," said OSUS Interim Director Sara Goldsby. "Driving under the influence is never worth the risk. We’re calling on every South Carolinian to plan ahead and make responsible choices.”

The Reality of Holiday DUIs

Law enforcement agencies in South Carolina often report a noticeable uptick in alcohol-related traffic incidents during the Memorial Day weekend, with many resulting in serious consequences. The holiday is frequently associated with increased impaired driving and heightened safety concerns on the roads.

“These tragedies are preventable. Impaired driving doesn't just endanger the driver – it puts passengers, other motorists and pedestrians at risk,” continued Goldsby.

A Campaign for Safer Celebrations

OSUS also proudly supports the Out of Their Hands campaign, which aims to reduce underage drinking and prevent impaired driving by empowering parents, community members and young people to take action.

OSUS encourages everyone to:

• Designate a sober driver before festivities begin.
• Use rideshare services like Uber and Lyft or stay overnight if you have been drinking.
• Talk to young adults about responsible choices and peer pressure. Tips can be found here.

Make the Right Choice

OSUS is committed to supporting safer communities through education, enforcement and public awareness. This Memorial Day, celebrate responsibly and keep the keys out of your hands if you have been drinking.

For more information or to access resources, please visit bhdd.sc.gov/office-substance-use-services or contact OSUS at 803-896-5555.

About OSUS:

The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, through its Office of Substance Use Services (formerly the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services), is the South Carolina government agency charged with ensuring quality services to prevent or reduce the negative consequences of substance use and addictions through a statewide system of local organizations that provide prevention, treatment, and recovery services. For more information, visit bhdd.sc.gov/office-substance-use-services.