More than 10,000 people suffer fatal injuries in drunk driving accidents each year across the United States. The chances of being involved in an alcohol-related crash increase around holidays, when social binge drinking occurs more frequently.
All drunk driving deaths are preventable, and sadly, fatalities during holiday periods have become eerily predictable. During the winter holidays, 40% of highway deaths are alcohol related.
Thanksgiving is the most traveled holiday of the year, and the night before is one of the busiest for bars across the country. Also known as Blackout Wednesday, it’s a time when people, especially younger adults, convene with friends and family over a pint. From this date through the end of the year, the roads get more dangerous thanks to increased travel and an uptick in holiday celebrations.
Every year at Christmas, the most wonderful time of year becomes the most devastating for some due to drunk driving. Holiday parties and festive libations cause 16% of adults to drink more this time of year, leading to an increase in alcohol-related road deaths.
Ringing in the New Year comes with increased risks on U.S. roadways. During this holiday period, the chances of a fatal crash involving alcohol are the highest of the year. New Year’s Day is also the most dangerous for pedestrians.
BE SAFE & PLAN AHEAD
- If you have a holiday gathering on your calendar, make smart choices and plan out how you’re going to get home safely once the celebration ends.
- If you are the designated driver, make a commitment to 100% sobriety to keep you and your friends safe.
- If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact local law enforcement immediately. Doing so could save the life of the driver, passenger, and others on the road.
- And, if you have a friend who is about to drive impaired, take away their keys and help them make arrangements to get home safely — it will be the greatest gift you ever give them.
