Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus joined District Attorney David M. Hoovler and Undersheriff Kenneth T. Jones on Monday, December 30 to show support for Dana Distributors’ Alert Cab initiative.

State Assemblyman Karl Brabenec, Orange County Legislator James O’Donnell, Commissioner of Emergency Services Brendan Casey and law enforcement personnel from the State Police and local municipalities also attended the news conference. The Orange County Tavern and Restaurant Association was presented with Dana Distributors’ 2019 Recognition Award at the event.

The Recognition Award is given each year to a leader in the community who helps bring attention to alcohol awareness and creates strong partnerships with local officials and law enforcement. Neuhaus earned the honor from Dana Distributors two years ago.

“Poor decisions can land you in jail, the hospital or worse. Orange County has zero tolerance for drunk driving and law enforcement will remain vigilant during this holiday, ensuring that our roadways are safe,” Neuhaus said. “We appreciate that Dana Distributors offers the Alert Cab program. Every ride can potentially save lives.”

For the 15th consecutive year, Dana Distributors is offering cab rides free of charge to residents in Rockland, Orange, and Sullivan counties as part of the Alert Cab program, in collaboration with Lyft. Rides are available from 4 p.m. December 31 to 2 a.m. on New Year’s Day. Destinations must be within a 10-mile radius of pickup, and one must have driven his/her car to the location at which pick up is requested.

Participating bars and restaurants will have signs to let patrons know the program is available. The program aims to improve road safety and prevent drunk driving over the New Year’s holiday.

“Alert Cab is an important program that has been successful for more than a decade,” Hoovler said. “I want to thank Fred Dana and Dana Distributors for continuing Alert Cab each year. Our message is simple: Don’t become or cause another statistic attributed to driving while intoxicated. There is never an excuse to drink and drive.”

Added Jones: “If you’ve have had too much to drink, don’t take a chance. Do not get in that car. Do not allow anyone else to get in that car if they have had too much to drink. The hardline you will hear from law enforcement will be drive sober or get pulled over.”

The Alert Cab service is paid for by Dana Distributors and provided by 19 cab companies, including eight in Orange County. For more information about the Alert Cab program, contact Tom Kennedy at Dana Distributors at 615-3236.