With the winter holiday season in full swing, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Mountain Home Police Department are reminding drivers of the dangers of impaired driving. Their message is clear: Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.
Alcohol-related crashes spike during the holiday season, posing a significant threat to road safety. Between 2018 and 2022, 4,759 lives were lost in alcohol-impaired crashes during the month of December alone. In December 2022, there were 1,062 fatalities, with young adults and males disproportionately represented in these incidents. Drunk male drivers were involved in 22% of fatal crashes compared to 16% for females, and drivers aged 21-34 made up 25% of alcohol-impaired drivers involved in deadly crashes.
Corporal Rockie Morrell of the Mountain Home Police Department says, “Driving is a privilege, not a right. We want everyone in our community to enjoy the holidays, but we also want everyone to make responsible choices. Drinking and driving can lead to life-altering consequences that extend far beyond the road.”
To promote safety during the holidays, officials urge drivers to plan ahead. If drinking is part of the celebration, secure a designated sober driver, call a taxi, or use a rideshare service. Those who find themselves impaired should hand their keys to a sober friend or family member. Friends are also encouraged to step in and prevent others from driving under the influence.
Drivers spotting impaired motorists on the road should contact local law enforcement immediately to help prevent potential tragedies.
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