National Impaired Driving Prevention Month

National Impaired Driving Prevention Month

Published on November 25, 2024

December is recognized as National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, with the focus on the dangers of driving under the influence. Be aware of how you can safely socialize and celebrate during the holiday season.

Impaired driving

Drugs-including opioids, marijuana and some over-the-counter medicines-can impair driving by causing drowsiness, altering visual functions and affecting mental judgment and motor skills.

Other factors, such as fatigue and stress, also can impair your ability to drive.

Don't drive if you're tired, stressed, or under the influence of any substance, just as if you have consumed alcohol.

Tips to celebrate safely

• Plan ahead and always designate a sober driver before attending a party or celebration.
• If you choose to drink, don't drive impaired. Instead, utilize ride share services such as Lyft, Uber or a taxi, or call a sober friend or family member for a ride home.
• Do not let someone get behind the wheel if they have been drinking.
• Do not ride with someone who is impaired.
• If you are hosting a party this holiday season, remind your guests to plan ahead and designate their sober driver. Remember, friends do not let friends drive drunk. Take their keys and help them get home safely.
• If you see an impaired driver, call 911.
• Always wear your seatbelt - it is your best defense against impaired drivers.

Consequences of driving impaired

The most prominent cost of death, disfigurement, disability and injury.

One-third of all traffic fatalities in the US involve drunk drivers. 13,524 people lost their lives in traffic crashes involving a drunk driver in 2022 alone.

Violators often face jail time, driver's license suspension or revocation, higher insurance rates, and other expenses such as attorney fees, fines and court costs, car towing and repairs, which can easily total $10,000.

Learn more

Tagged as:

• Public Safety