As the nation celebrates Independence Day, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reminds all drivers that Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. In 2022, a person was killed every 39 minutes in a drunk-driving crash on our nation's roads, even though it is illegal to drive while impaired by alcohol.
Every year, the Fourth of July holiday stands out as one of the deadliest times on the nation’s roads. From 2018 to 2022, there were 2,228 traffic crash fatalities during the holiday, 1,414 of whom were the driver. Thirty-nine percent (545) of those drivers were drunk. Of the 1,414 drivers killed, the 21-34 age group had the highest percent (50%) of drunk drivers.
If you sense any level of buzz, it is your duty to stay away from the driver's seat. For some people, even one drink is too many to drive safely. Individuals typically make arrangements with friends and family for their Fourth of July festivities, including deciding on the food and beverages that will be served. In the same vein, it's crucial to plan for a sober ride home and completely rule out drinking and driving. We’re partnering with NHTSA to share the reminder that Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. Celebrating our nation's independence responsibly is vital to prevent endangering the relatives or friends of others.
Drivers should be safe during this Independence Day holiday by planning ahead if they intend to drink. They shouldn’t wait until after drinking to plan how to get somewhere. Impairment clouds a person’s judgment. Drivers should secure a designated sober driver or call a taxi or rideshare for a sober ride home.
If a driver finds they are unable to drive, they should give their keys to a sober driver so that person can get them home safely. When a friend has been drinking and is considering driving, friends should be proactive — take away the keys and help them get a sober ride home. If anyone spots a drunk driver, contact local law enforcement.
Drive 100% sober, because Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. For more information on impaired driving, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving.
https://tntrafficsafety.org/microsites/4th-of-july-drive-sober/