January 5, 2026 | From City of New Orleans
New Orleans Health Department launches “Safe Rides, Big Easy Vibes,” a new initiative to reduce impaired driving among young adults
The New Orleans Health Department’s Injury Prevention and Transportation Safety team announces the launch of “Safe Rides, Big Easy Vibes,” a new citywide initiative focused on education and reducing driving under the influence (DUI) among 18–24-year-olds in New Orleans.
Funded by a nearly $92,000 grant from the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission (LHSC), “Safe Rides, Big Easy Vibes” brings engaging, hands-on, and educational programming directly to the places young people live, learn, and socialize, including college campuses, community events and festivals, and nightlife spots throughout New Orleans. This initiative is made possible through partnerships with local universities, high schools, bars and restaurants, and community organizations, including Ride NOLA, Bike Easy, and Blue Krewe.
“We want to stop tragedies before they happen by reaching people most at risk and giving them the right information early,” said Jeanie Donovan, Deputy Director of the New Orleans Health Department. “This initiative helps young adults make safer choices so they can enjoy everything New Orleans has to offer and get home safely.”
The program will run through October 2026 and will feature a range of hands-on activities designed to make safety education accessible, memorable, and relevant.
Programming includes:
- Engaging, interactive presentations that explain DUI risks, how alcohol impairs the body and brain, the legal and personal consequences of impaired driving, and practical tips for staying safe on a night out in New Orleans.
- Impairment Goggle activities that allow participants to experience the effects of impairment in a safe, controlled environment.
- Pop-up tabling events that provide giveaways, educational materials, and information on safe transportation options, including RTA services, Opportunity Passes, and safe bike route planning.
Drunk driving is 100% preventable, yet alcohol-related crashes remain a serious public safety issue in Orleans Parish. According to the LSU Center for Analytics & Research in Transportation Safety (CARTS), Orleans Parish recorded 14 fatal alcohol-related crashes and 294 alcohol-related crashes resulting in injury in 2024.
That same year, Orleans Parish recorded 370 DWI cases, representing a significant increase from the previous year.
Between 2019 and 2023, drivers ages 18–24 were responsible for 13% of DWI crashes in Orleans Parish. Drivers ages 25–34 accounted for nearly 35% of DWI cases, while those ages 35–44 contributed to 27% of crashes.
By reaching young drivers early, the New Orleans Health Department aims to influence safer decision-making before individuals enter higher-risk age groups and reduce alcohol-related crashes over time.
“Safe Rides, Big Easy Vibes” will take place throughout New Orleans, and organizations, schools, and venues are encouraged to request presentations or resources. Contact us at DriveSoberNOLA@nola.gov to request a presentation or other resources, or visit our website at nola.gov/drivesober.
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