Macon-Bibb coroner Leon Jones offering free rides on New Year’s Eve
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), New Year’s Day is the deadliest traffic day of the year, with an 89% higher likelihood of fatal accidents caused by drunk driving. If you or any one you know is in need of a ride, you can reach Jones at 478-256-6716.
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – 2025 is just around the corner, but it’ll only be a happy new year if you and your loved ones make it home safely after the festivities. Macon-Bibb County Coroner Leon Jones is taking action to avoid DUI-related arrests, injuries, and fatalities by providing free rides.
“I can transport you sitting up or I can transport you lying down,” Jones said.
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), New Year’s Day is the deadliest traffic day of the year, with an 89% higher likelihood of fatal accidents caused by drunk driving. The NSC estimates that 179 people may die on U.S. roads this New Year’s Day holiday period.
But these deaths are preventable. Those planning to enjoy alcoholic beverages tonight can hop in a van with Jones for free.
“These vans run all night long,” Jones said. “We’ll carry you anywhere you want to go. All you have to do is call us.”
Jones has been renting out vans to transport Bibb County residents on New Year’s Eve since 2014, after a tragic accident inspired him to get involved.
“One of the worst wrecks I’ve seen in Bibb County was a DUI driver that killed an entire family on I-75,” Jones said. “And so, I try my best to keep the DUIs down in Bibb County.
This year, Jones says two vans will be picking people up from gatherings that range from parties to church watchnight services. The vans will run all night into the early hours of New Year’s Day morning, which people started taking advantage of early.
“I got some reservations already,” Jones said. “I got reservations this morning at 10:00.”
Jones encourages those celebrating to have fun, but more importantly, utilize all resources available to avoid drunk driving. He says legal trouble, the shame that comes with it, and worse can all be avoided by simply picking up the phone.
“Why take a chance of hurting yourself or hurting anybody else?” Jones said. “You can get locked up, get your car towed in, or your picture plastered all over social media. You’re an embarrassment to your family, your friends, and your coworkers. Why take a chance? It’s free, all you got to do is call me.”
If you or any one you know is in need of a ride, you can reach Jones at 478-256-6716.
