Bring out the sparklers and get ready to celebrate. And if you’re planning to have a drink or 2, be sure to plan a safe ride.

This July 4th holiday weekend, we’re standing together with Mothers Against Drunk Driving, local police departments, policymakers, and community leaders to spread awareness about safe transportation options this holiday weekend.

“We are pleased that Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) has chosen Uber as its official designated driving app. Join us and MADD Connecticut in spreading the word to make safe choices, and make drunk driving a thing of the past.” – Janice Heggie Margolis, Executive Director MADD CT

In 2014, Connecticut saw 97 drunk driving deaths during the July 4th weekend, which added up to 39% of all traffic fatalities that year. That rate is higher than the U.S. average of 31%, and is the fifth highest nationally—behind Texas, North Dakota, Massachusetts, and Delaware. (Source: NHTSA)

Two recent studies concluded that drunk driving related incidents are reduced in places with access to ride-sharing services such as Uber. The reports include a study completed in partnership with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), concluding that people make choices that result in fewer alcohol-related crashes when given more transportation options like Uber. In addition, an independent study from Temple University found that cities where Uber operates have 3.6–5.6% fewer drunk driving deaths than cities without access to ridesharing.

When you can take out your smartphone and request a safe, affordable ride in just minutes, there’s no reason to get behind the wheel after you’ve had a few drinks.

Have a safe and festive holiday weekend!