Local Officials Push For Safe Driving During Holidays

Yes, you hear about this during several holidays throughout the year. But if everybody took it to heart, maybe the reminder would not need to be repeated so often. Bottom line, we all want a safe, happy holiday season, so here we go...

Today, December 22, 2025, a press conference was held at the offices of the Broome County District Attorney, F. Paul Battisti, in conjunction with local law enforcement agencies, emphasizing the importance of safe driving during the holiday season.

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We are now in the midst of one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Because of this, it was announced that locally, there will be increased patrols and sobriety checkpoints throughout Broome County during the holiday season. The result is to help deter impaired and reckless driving and to reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities.

The holidays are a time for family, celebration, and community, not preventable loss. By joining collaborating with our local law enforcement partners, we are reinforcing the message that safe driving is everyone’s responsibility. Increased patrols and checkpoints will help ensure our roads are safe for all. - Broome County District Attorney F. Paul Battisti

During the announcement, Battisti also spoke about the dangers of operating a vehicle while impaired by prescription medications, stating that several commonly prescribed drugs can negatively impact reaction time, judgment, and coordination, making driving unsafe.

He noted that driving while impaired by prescription or over-the-counter medications is illegal. Take steps to read those medication warnings, follow guidance from healthcare providers, and do not drive if your medication may impair your ability to do so.

Drive responsibly, stay safe. Not only for you, but also for any passengers in your vehicle, and those on the roadways throughout your travels. Keep in mind, local law enforcement will be out in force over this holiday season, patrolling and conducting checkpoints at various locations and times throughout Broome County.