December is Impaired Driving Prevention Month

Impaired Driving Prevention Month: important information and guidance from our Trauma Education Team ...

“Every day, about 34 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes- that's one person every 42 minutes.”

For the last 40 years there has been a national movement to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving and provide strategies to ensure we all make it home safely this holiday season. December is one of the mostly deadly months of the year due to impaired drivers. Prevention and education are key. Impaired driving is not just drunk driving. Impaired driving is operating a vehicle while your ability to do is negatively impacted by alcohol, illegal drugs, over the counter medications, prescription medications, extreme sleepiness, or distraction such as texting and driving. Impaired driving negatively affects key abilities of safe driving such as judgement, decision making, coordination, concentration, reaction time, perception of time, and perception of distance.

Be a responsible driver! Here are some tips to help keep you and others safe.

Make plans ahead of time for your way home, before you attend the party. Have a designated driver arranged ahead of time.

If someone is impaired, arrange a safe place for them to stay or a safe ride home.

Always wear your seatbelt- it is the best defense against other impaired drivers.

If you are hosting a party, serve non-alcoholic options for those who are driving, provide food, and ensure that those who are underage are not drinking.

Be sure to get an adequate amount of sleep (approximately 7-8 hrs) before getting behind the wheel.

Do not drive after taking any medications that can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or impair your judgement.

Turn off the cruise control while driving to help you stay engaged.

Avoid distractions while driving.