As the holiday season brings joy and celebrations, the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) urges everyone to remember that the most precious gift is arriving home safely. December marks National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, a time to reflect on the dangers of driving under the influence. Unfortunately, more people are choosing to drive drunk during this time. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that December drunk driving fatalities are the highest they’ve been in 15 years.
To combat impaired driving, NHTSA has launched two key safety campaigns that will run from Dec. 11 to Jan. 1: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over and If You Feel Different, You Drive Different – Drive High, Get a DUI. These campaigns aim to educate the public about the dangers and consequences of impaired driving. During this period, law enforcement agencies across the country, including Alabama, will increase patrols to keep impaired drivers off the roads and prevent tragic accidents.
Drunk Driving
In December 2022, the most recent year with available data, 1,062 people lost their lives in drunk driving crashes — the highest number of fatalities in 15 years. From 2018 to 2022, NHTSA recorded more than 4,750 deaths in drunk driving crashes during December alone. These deaths serve as a painful reminder that impaired driving is not only illegal but deadly. The effects are felt year-round, but especially during the holidays.
Drug-Impaired Driving: A growing concern
Like drunk driving, driving under the influence of drugs is illegal in all 50 states. A NHTSA study conducted between 2019 and 2021 at trauma centers and medical examiner offices found that about 25% of seriously injured or killed drivers tested positive for THC, the active ingredient in marijuana. It’s important to remember that any impairment, whether from alcohol or drugs, significantly affects driving ability.
Safe driving tips for the holidays
Whether you’re driving, riding, or hosting, ALDOT encourages everyone to follow these tips to ensure safety on the roads during this busy time:
- Plan for a sober ride home. Designate a driver or arrange a ride-sharing service, taxi, or public transportation if you plan to drink. Click here for more tips for getting home safely without driving.
- Don’t drive impaired. If you choose to drink, don’t risk it — call a sober friend, a ride-sharing service, or use public transportation to get home safely.
- If you’re hosting, be responsible. Keep an eye on your guests and make sure no one gets behind the wheel after drinking. Take their keys if necessary and help them find a safe way home — this small act could save a life.
For more information on impaired driving, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving.
