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“All we’re asking for…is to offer to these people who are going to celebrate…an option,” said State Sen. Tony Hwang (R-28), who helped announce the plan at Fairfield Theatre Company Wednesday.
Here’s how it works: From now through 11:59 p.m. New Year’s Day, Uber will donate $5 per ride from riders using a promo code to MADD Connecticut, said Matt Powers, general manager of Uber Connecticut.
New riders can sign up for Uber with the promo code MADDCT for $25 off their first ride, with $5 donated to MADD. Existing Uber riders can enter the promo code MADDCT2015 and Uber will donate $5 for each ride they take during the promotion.
“Uber has just stepped right in,” said State Rep. Brenda Kupchick (R-132). “You just hit the phone and you have a ride. It’s a no-brainer.”
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 945 drunk driving deaths between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve in 2014. Holiday arrests for driving under the influence in Connecticut have already jumped from 19 in 2014 to 40 in 2015.
Powers encouraged residents to sign up for Uber before leaving home, in case they decide they need a ride later. From there, they can open the app, tap twice and a ride will be available within five minutes on average, he said.
There is no cash exchanged and no tipping, as payment is made through a registered credit card. The system also allows riders to alert family and friends that they are on their way home.
“Safety is core to Uber’s mission,” Powers said.
Johanna Krebs, MADD’s program manager, encouraged partygoers who don’t have designated drivers to have a plan in mind for safe, sober rides before going out.
“With the community’s help, we can save more lives,” she said.
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