‘Tis the Season to Drive Sober

With an increase in parties and celebrations, it makes sense that December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. Especially this year, with the uptick in holiday parties after a pandemic-induced social hiatus in 2020 that had many restaurants and bars shut down, a boosted level of cheer and joy may bring a temptation to overindulge, increasing the risk of driving under the influence. When joining with old friends and colleagues in merriment, make sure you have a plan for how to safely get home – keeping in mind that ride-sharing services are not as accessible as they were pre-pandemic.

Drunk driving continues to be a major issue both for individuals who drive vehicles while intoxicated, and those who become involved in an accident due to a drunk driver. According to the National Highway Safety Transportation Administration (NHSTA), approximately 28 people die daily due to drunk driving. Bringing that stat closer to home, data from the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning (OHSP) reported 326 alcohol-related fatalities in 2020, accounting for 30% of the 1,083 accident related fatalities in Michigan. All these deaths could have been prevented had drivers chosen not to get in the driver’s seat.

This holiday season, celebrate responsibly, and make sure you’re in a sober and alert position before you get behind the wheel. Drunk driving is not worth the risk for you, your family, or others on the road.