One person is killed, on average, about every 39 minutes in a drunk-driving crash, totaling more than 13,000 lives lost each year.
Drunk Driving Is Deadly
Drunk-Driving-Related Deaths During Christmas/New Year's Holiday Periods In 2021
Lives Lost In Drunk-Driving Crashes In December 2021
People Killed In December Drunk-Driving Crashes From 2017-2021
During the Christmas and New Year holiday periods, we often see a rise in drunk-driving deaths. In fact, recent data shows December drunk driving deaths are the highest in almost 15 years. As a result, you'll likely see more law enforcement on the roads as part of Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. The campaign, which runs December 13 - January 1, aims to educate people about the dangers and consequences of driving drunk.
Be Responsible
For the past few years, we've seen drivers making risky decisions when they're behind the wheel. As the year comes to a close and a new one begins, make it a point to drive safely — and drive sober — every day.
Have a Plan Whether You're Driving, Riding or Hosting
If you’re celebrating and drinking this holiday season, always remember to plan ahead with a sober driver to take you home. If you’re the designated driver, it’s important to take the role seriously and don’t consume alcohol or use other drugs. Here are some more safety tips:
- Never drink and drive.
- Don’t let someone get behind the wheel if that person has been drinking.
- If you’re hosting a gathering, make sure everyone has a sober ride home.
- Call 911 if you see a drunk driver.
- Always wear your seat belt. It’s your best defense against impaired drivers.
It's Illegal to Drive Drunk
A DUI can set you back, on average, $10,000, and there could be a crash — people could get hurt or killed.
The Effects of Alcohol on Driving
Just one drink before driving can put you and others in danger, because alcohol impairs thinking, reasoning and muscle coordination.
| Blood Alcohol Concentration | Predictable Effects on Driving |
|---|---|
| .02 | Decline in visual functions, decline in ability to perform two tasks at the same time |
| .05 | Reduced coordination, reduced ability to track moving objects, difficulty steering, reduced response to emergency driving situations |
| .08 | Reduced concentration, short-term memory loss, lack of speed control, reduced information processing capability, impaired perception |
| .10 | Reduced ability to maintain lane position and brake appropriately |
| .15 | Substantial impairment in vehicle control, attention to driving task, and in necessary visual and auditory information processing |
If You Feel Different, You Drive Different — Drive High Get a DUI
Did you know that you can also get a DUI for driving under the influence of drugs? Driving while impaired by any substance — legal or illegal — puts you and others in harm’s way.