Preventing Drunk Driving
Last updated: December 27th, 2022
Every day, about 28 people die from drunk driving in the United States. That’s about one person every 52 minutes. These deaths are preventable. Before heading out to any event where you will be drinking, plan ahead to make sure that you and your loved ones are not driving drunk.
Tips to avoid drunk-driving:
- If you have been drinking, do not drive - even if you feel fine.
- Never ride in a vehicle with someone who has been drinking - even if they have only had one drink.
- Designate an individual in your group to remain sober and be the designated driver.
- Utilize available transportation methods like taxis, public transportation or Uber/Lyft. Anticipate staying with friends, in a hotel, or walking home, if safe, after drinking.
- If planning a party, provide non-alcohol drink options and stop serving alcohol at least one hour before the party ends.
- Take keys aways from your friends if they attempt to drive after drinking, even if they insist they are fine. There are always alternatives to get them home safely.
When driving, be aware of your surroundings, always wear your seatbelt and pay attention to the behavior of other drivers who may be under the influence.
Protect yourself from drunk drivers:
- Buckle your seatbelt - Seat belts reduce the chance of a crash being fatal.
- Maintain a sizable following distance.
- Use extra caution at intersections and be aware of other drivers at all sides of the intersection.
- Avoid driving late at night, if possible.
- Be a designated driver for your friends.
- Participate in police check-points.
Remember, when you drive after drinking, you put not only yourself at risk, but everyone else on the road at risk, as well. If you have to question if you are okay to drive, then you should NOT be driving.