According to a U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention survey, 32 people in the U.S. are killed every day in crashes involving an alcohol-impaired driver — this is one death every 45 minutes.
While the holiday season is a time to gather with family and friends, it is also an important time to think about having a designated driver for your holiday events.
The risks of driving impaired outweigh the benefit of convenience. According to the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the average American has a 30% chance of being killed or injured by an impaired driver during their lifetime, and impaired driving is a leading cause of death for people under the age of 30.
Impaired driving is preventable and is an issue that affects all of us.
Under Arizona law, a person can be charged with a DUI for driving under the influence of any drug or its metabolites, including prescription medications like opioids or benzodiazepines, as well as recreational substances such as marijuana.
Impairment can be deceptive — after just two drinks, our abilities may begin to decline. As blood alcohol concentration increases, a person’s judgment, motor skills and decision-making abilities are progressively impaired.
Responsible behavior helps minimize risks
Preventing impaired driving requires proactive steps and responsible choices.
Plan ahead by arranging for a designated driver or alternative transportation before consuming alcohol or using drugs. Public transportation and ride-sharing services like Uber, Lyft or taxis are reliable options to get home safely.
Educate yourself about the risks and effects of alcohol and drug use on driving, as well as the legal consequences of impaired driving. Impaired drivers come in all ages, genders and backgrounds.
Lastly, set a good example by refraining from drinking or using drugs if you’re the designated driver, demonstrating the importance of responsible behavior to others.
Consequences of driving impaired can be harsh
The consequences of driving drunk can be severe and life-altering. Legally, it can lead to hefty fines, license suspension, increased insurance rates and even jail time, depending on the severity of the offense.
Beyond legal repercussions, drunken driving endangers lives, often resulting in devastating accidents that can cause serious injuries or fatalities to drivers, passengers and innocent bystanders. These tragedies leave lasting emotional scars on families and communities.
Additionally, a drunken driving conviction can harm personal and professional reputations, making it difficult to find employment or maintain relationships. The physical, emotional and financial toll of such reckless behavior underscores the critical importance of making responsible choices.
If you find yourself in a situation where you’ll need to drive home, self-awareness is key. Recognize your limits with alcohol and take steps to stay responsible, such as handing your keys to a trusted friend if you tend to make poor decisions while drinking.
Reflect on your drinking habits — are you drinking out of social anxiety or because it’s become routine? Consider trying sober nights out or practicing moderation by volunteering as the designated driver for your group.
If this becomes more than just routine and your life becomes unmanageable from substance abuse, there are treatment options available and it's never too late to reach out for help. These small but mindful actions can prevent dangerous consequences and help ensure everyone’s safety.
Editor’s note: Andrea Dermott is director of business development at Scottsdale Recovery Center. Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.
