(Editorial - Graphic Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

“Over the river and through the woods” gets taken to another level in West Virginia during the holidays. No matter where they live now, the Mountain State is still “home” to thousands upon thousands of people who will be making the journey to be in the place they belong for Christmas and maybe even New Year’s Day.

According to the state Parkways Authority, an estimated 1.48 million transactions is expected on the West Virginia Turnpike between Dec. 20 and Jan. 2. Of course, not all of those vehicles full of people will wind up stopping here. But plenty will.

And forget about the turnpike, many of us will be twisting and turning our way out roads that make non-natives squeak (or sick) to get to Grandma’s house or where ever we will be celebrating with friends and family.

If the weather is not on our side, those trips could be even more treacherous.

Don’t add to the challenge by driving distracted or under the influence — whether on the way there or on the way home after a lovely evening that perhaps included a drink or two.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data shows arrests for driving under the influence (and that can mean alcohol or drugs) increase dramatically during the holidays. Arrests are the smallest of consequences for such poor decision-making, though. According to the NHTSA’s numbers for December 2022, 1,062 people died that month in drunk driving crashes.

Before the celebrations and extra driving begin, give yourself the gift of planning for safe rides home — whether that be designating a driver or having the number of a taxi, rideshare or sober friend or relative. If you’re a host, don’t let someone drive home if they have had too much to drink. Take the keys, call a ride for them, let them stay a while. Better they crash on the couch than on the road. Calling out “watch for deer” as they make their way to their cars isn’t enough.

Enjoy yourselves this season. Spend time with family and friends. Celebrate.

Just do so responsibly and safely, and make it, indeed, a merry Christmas.