National Impaired Driving Prevention Month

Celebrate Safely This Holiday Season

December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. Each year, the number of traffic fatalities involving impaired drivers surges during the holiday season. Impaired driving is not only drunk driving. It also includes distracted driving and drugged driving. Remind your drivers that the best present they can give their family is to celebrate safely and arrive alive.

Know the Facts

Impaired driving data is alarming. Check out these statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

• In 2019, 10,142 people died from drunk driving accidents.
• One person was killed in a drunk-driving crash every 52 minutes in 2019.
• Drugs other than alcohol are involved in about 16% of vehicle crashes.

Consequences of Impaired Driving

Driving impaired is a serious and dangerous crime. Consequences vary from misdemeanors to felony offenses, losing your license, jail time, increased insurance rates, court-ordered classes, expensive fines, and loss of employment.

Besides the legal consequences, impaired driving can result in unnecessary loss of lives and devastate loved ones left behind. Even in crashes where no one dies, injuries and property damage can be severe.

Detecting Impaired Driving

Watch for the signs! Defensive drivers are keenly aware of their surroundings. If you notice any of the following behaviors, put distance between you and the vehicle, look for identifying information from a safe distance, and contact law enforcement. You could save someone's life.

• Rapid accelerating, decelerating or traveling well under the speed limit.
• Driving on the wrong side of the road.
• Swerving, weaving, tailgating, or drifting.
• Driving with headlights off at night.
• Turning illegally or abruptly.
• Near misses with an object, curbs, or another vehicle.
• Stopping in the roadway without an apparent reason.
• Delayed response time to traffic signals.

Make Responsible Decisions

Plan ahead to avoid a potential catastrophe. Make responsible decisions by following these recommendations:

• Some prescription and over-the-counter medicines can cause side effects such as drowsiness or dizziness. Read all warning labels before driving.
• Establish a safe, reliable designated driver prior to using impairing substances.
• Utilize a ride share service, taxi, or public transit if you have been drinking or using drugs.
• If you are hosting a party, do not let guests leave without a sober driver.
• Never ride in a vehicle with an impaired driver.
• Always wear your seatbelt!

BITCO is here to help keep your drivers safe. For fresh ways to train your drivers, contact your local Risk Control Consultant. To find a BITCO agent, click the button below.

For information purposes only. BITCO's blog content does not address all potential circumstances and is not a substitute for business, safety, or legal consultation.