Every day, about 37 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes — that’s one person every 39 minutes. Drunk driving remains one of the leading causes of preventable tragedies, especially during the holiday season when celebrations, more often than not, come with alcohol. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, around 32% of all traffic fatalities in the U.S. involve drunk drivers. These aren’t just statistics – they represent loved ones, shattered families, and lives tragically lost too soon.
One single lapse in judgement could lead to financial penalties, serious legal repercussions, imprisonment, or permanent harm to yourself and the other people involved – the worst case scenario being death. For those striving for sobriety or in recovery from substance abuse, the risks of driving under the influence can carry even greater weight, as they jeopardize all of the things previously mentioned on top of the hard-earned progress in overcoming substance abuse. These outcomes serve as very real reminders of the importance of making responsible choices, particularly during times of increased temptation.
Understanding the severe consequences of impaired driving, and taking proactive steps to avoid it, can save lives. Particularly for those committed to staying sober, these precautions can be a constant reminder to keep you focused on your road to recovery. Having a plan before you leave the house is a great way to set yourself up for success.
For those who do plan on imbibing, arrange for a sober ride in advance. Have a designated driver in the group or have a friend or family member pick you up. If you’re in an area with good public transit, make sure the bus or train will still be operating at the time you plan on leaving. With apps like Uber and Lyft, there’s no excuse to drive under the influence. When in doubt, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
If you’re hosting a gathering, offer a variety of non-alcoholic beverages and encourage guests to plan their transportation intentionally. Providing options and promoting responsible drinking can help protect everyone. Some hosts collect keys upon arrival to prevent anyone from making a bad decision. It’s all about knowing your guests and doing what’s best for everyone’s interest and safety.
For those in recovery attending parties where alcohol will be present, make sure to lean on your support networks. Reach out to friends, sponsors, or recovery groups for encouragement. Surrounding yourself with people who understand and support your journey can help reduce temptation and build accountability. Maybe even consider bringing someone along who will stay sober with you if it helps. Stay mindful of stress, loneliness, or other triggers that may lead to poor decision-making so that you’re at your toughest, mentally.
Accountability also plays a vital role in preventing drunk driving. Encourage friends and loved ones to make safe choices, and don’t hesitate to intervene if someone appears at all like they shouldn’t be operating a vehicle. The simple act of offering a sober ride or taking someone’s keys can prevent tragedy.
Every decision matters. For those recovering from substance abuse, avoiding drunk driving is a critical step in maintaining progress and protecting the lives of others. You can absolutely enjoy the season without compromising your well-being or endangering others. At the end of the day, it’s just not worth the risk. Avoid decisions that could possibly make your life more difficult. By choosing responsibility and promoting safe alternatives, you can honor your own journeys and help create a safer world for everyone.
If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol addiction, please contact our compassionate team 24/7 at 800-604-2117 for help.
