The drinking habits of Americans has increased dramatically in the last 10 years, according to recent research published in JAMA Psychiatry. According to the authors of the study, one in every eight Americans can be classified as an alcoholic. All forms of alcohol consumption have increased in the last decade. The increase in alcohol use and alcohol use disorder plays a part in traffic fatalities, which have risen over the last two consecutive years. About 30 percent of all traffic fatalities involve drunk driving.
Drunk driving enforcement efforts increasing
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is promoting its annual “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign. As part of this campaign, law enforcement from participating police departments nationwide will be placing a heavy emphasis on catching drunk drivers. If arrested and convicted, criminal penalties for DWI will be harsher than ever before.
This campaign began on August 16 and will last through September 4. Major Edward Hoke, the director of the Pennsylvania State Police’s Bureau of Patrol, told the Pocono Times that Pennsylvania state troopers are being extremely vigilant regarding drunk driving from now until Labor Day.
Please don’t drive drunk
Please do not put yourself or others in danger by drinking and driving. Our attorneys have seen the consequences of what can happen when drivers get behind the wheel after drinking. Driving accidents can alter lives and have lasting consequences on entire families.
Simply put, drinking and driving is not worth the risk. There are many ways to prevent drunk driving, including having a designated driver or using a ridesharing service. There are also numerous apps that can help you plan a sober ride if you are drinking, such as Uber or Lyft, which will pinpoint your exact location and provide transportation for you to safely return home.
There is nothing wrong with having fun and relaxing. However, one bad decision can forever affect your life or the lives of innocent people out on the road. Have fun, but please be safe.