Spread Joy, Celebrate Responsibly
December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. As we gear up for the holiday season, it's important to remember that celebrations should be joyous occasions, not marred by the devastating consequences of impaired driving. According to the latest data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an estimated more than 10,000 Americans die every year in alcohol- or substance-impaired driving accidents. As we enter into this festive time of year, the NHTSA is intensifying efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving, emphasizing the need for responsible celebrations across the nation.
Law enforcement agencies nationwide are joining forces with the NHTSA to implement high-visibility enforcement strategies. Sobriety checkpoints and community outreach initiatives will be deployed to identify and remove impaired drivers from our roadways. These efforts aim to create safer communities and reduce the alarming statistics associated with alcohol-related accidents.
The NHTSA and Healthy Acadia urge everyone to celebrate responsibly this holiday season. If you're 21 or older and plan to consume alcohol during your festivities, it's crucial to make a plan for a safe ride home before the celebrations begin. This plan might involve designating a non-drinking, unimpaired driver, utilizing a rideshare app, calling a friend or family member for a ride, or planning to stay the night where you are.
Our Top Five Tips for Celebrating Safely
Know Your Limits: Remember to eat before consuming alcohol and stay hydrated. Pace yourself, count your drinks, and be mindful of your alcohol intake.
Know the Standard Servings: Learn about standard servings of alcohol, which are often less than you might think. One standard drink generally equates to one 12-ounce beer, one 5-ounce glass of wine, or one 1.5-ounce shot of liquor.
Know What’s in Your Drink: Be aware that cocktail recipes can vary in alcohol content. Understanding how much alcohol is in your cocktail is essential to staying within safe limits.
Under 21=NO Alcohol: For individuals under 21, it's important to note that many states, including Maine, have a zero-tolerance law, prohibiting any alcohol in their system while operating a motor vehicle.
Time is the Only Solution: Nothing can lower blood alcohol concentration (BAC) except time. If you're of legal drinking age, your BAC cannot be above 0.08 percent while driving.
As we approach the holiday season, let's prioritize safety and responsible decision-making. By following these guidelines and staying informed, we can ensure that our celebrations are filled with joy and shared with loved ones without the shadow of impaired driving looming over us. Let's make this holiday season a time of warmth, connection, and responsible choices on the road.
If you find yourself drinking more than usual or are concerned about your alcohol consumption, visit alcoholscreening.org for free, anonymous, and confidential self-assessment tools and resources.