December marks Impaired Driving Prevention Month, a crucial period for raising awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the holiday season brings a spike in impaired driving incidents, as the combination of social gatherings and the associated pressures to overindulge can lead to risky behaviors on the roads.
Consequences of Impaired Driving
Many formal and casual holiday celebrations include alcohol. Unfortunately, this uptick in parties translates to an increase in impaired driving and car accidents due to peer pressure and poor judgment.
The festive atmosphere, combined with an inability to accurately gauge how impaired you have become, significantly heightens the risk of accidents and driving offenses. The repercussions of driving under the influence extend far beyond potential accidents and injuries. Here are some of the severe consequences that can result from impaired driving charges.
- Legal consequences typically include jail time, substantial fines, a suspended driver’s license and mandatory participation in alcohol education and treatment programs.
- A DUI or DWI conviction can leave a permanent mark on your criminal record, which can adversely affect your future employment opportunities and ability to obtain credit.
- Convictions can drastically increase your car insurance rates or result in you losing coverage if companies deem you are too risky to insure.
- A DUI/DWI can strain your relationships and professional connections, profoundly impacting your social and work lives.
Tips for Young Men to Avoid Impaired Driving
Given the high stakes, you must approach holiday celebrations with a plan to prevent driving under the influence.
- Arrange for transportation: Do not drive if you have been drinking. Remember, in California, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.01% or higher if you are under 21. That number increases to 0.08% for people of drinking age. Call a taxi, use a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft or ask a trustworthy friend to be your designated driver.
- Use technology: Phone apps can help you monitor your alcohol intake and even estimate your BAC. While not 100% accurate, they can provide a helpful guideline for understanding how alcohol affects your body.
- Stay informed: Be aware that even one beer can adversely diminish your judgment and slow your reaction time, potentially inhibiting you from operating a vehicle safely.
- Host responsibility: If you host a party, offer non-alcoholic beverages and either invite all guests to stay the night or ensure they have a safe way home. Stop serving alcohol well before the party ends.
- Speak up: If you see someone attempting to drive after drinking, intervene in a non-confrontational way. Take away their keys and call them a ride.
- Understand the law: Be aware of the legal alcohol limits and the implications of getting behind the wheel while impaired.
Experts in Young Adult Mental Health
Impaired Driving Prevention Month should inspire you to take your responsibilities on the road seriously. Getting charged with a DUI as a young man can derail your promising future, so you should take proactive steps to avoid it.
PACE Recovery educates our clients about making informed choices with treatment plans designed for men aged 18 to 30. Remember, driving while intoxicated is illegal nationwide. If you need help with a drinking or drug problem, we offer comprehensive services tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today to inquire about our services.
