Drunk Driving DUI during the Holidays
Keep the “Happy” in the Holidays
Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate all the things we are thankful for. It’s the time of year when friends, families and co-workers get excited to spend time with those that they love and care about. Tragically these times become a memory of pain and hurt because of bad choices.
Last year there were over 1,100 drunk driving fatalities between November and January. Buzzed and drunk driving impact the judgment of all drivers on the road. 70% of holiday drunk driving fatalities are caused by drivers with a blood alcohol content of 0.15+. The statistics are staggering. But behind every statistic are the broken hearts of the families and friends left behind.
There are ways to help stop these senseless tragedies.
- Designate a non-drinking driver, use a ride sharing app, call a taxi.
- Make sure you buckle up every time. The simple act of using your seat belt is the best defense against the drunk driver.
- Choose not to drink if you’re going to drive. A DUI / DWI is completely avoidable. This crime doesn’t have to happen.
- Encourage, tell, demand that others don’t get behind the wheel if they have been drinking. Call the cops if necessary. Yes, it’s that important.
Who are the main influences for teenage drivers concerning drinking and driving? Parents are the biggest influence to keep a teen from drinking and driving. When you have a conversation with your teenage drivers about the deadly dangers of drinking and driving, they are likely to make better decisions when getting behind the wheel.
No matter the age of the child, whether they are in elementary school, middle school, high school or even college, there is no better time to discuss the real life consequences of drinking and driving.
Enjoy the holidays. Enjoy all the parties. Enjoy the food, drinks and fun. Do it responsibly.
