Getting pulled over for “buzzed” driving could cost a driver around $10,000 in fines, legal fees, and increased insurance rates, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which has launched a public awareness campaign to highlight the dangers of impaired driving.

“As the excitement and celebrations of the holiday season get into full swing, one thing that may not be on people’s minds is buzzed driving,” says the NHTSA. “However, over 10,000 people were killed in 2010 in drunk driving crashes.  A buzzed driving crash can happen to anyone, anywhere.”

The agency and the Ad Council are using a Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving PSA campaign to remind them of these six easy tips to help prevent buzzed driving:

• Spread the message about buzzed driving - http://www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov/preHolidaySeason2012
• Before drinking, designate a sober driver.
• If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely.
• If your community has a program that offers free rides home, use it.
• If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact your local police.

“Remember, Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving. If you know people who are about to drive or ride with someone who is impaired, take the driver’s keys and help them make other arrangements to get to their destination safely.”