The Effects Of Drinking And Driving

In the blink of an eye, a night of fun can turn into a lifetime of regret. Drinking and driving is a dangerous combination that claims thousands of lives every year, leaving a trail of shattered families and broken dreams. Despite widespread awareness campaigns and stringent laws, the allure of alcohol's temporary escape continues to cloud the judgment of many, leading them to make decisions with devastating consequences.

Impaired driving is something that has impacted me personally, which is why I am so passionate about advocating and spreading awareness.

Over the course of my addiction and the difficulty I had alleviating my alcoholism, I had suffered great consequences for making the decision to drive under the influence - on more than one occassion.

There is no excuse for it. The longer I have spent sober and in active recovery, I have revisited my past more times than I can recount. Back then, my ability to think things through and be aware of the potential dangers were completely void. I always had the mindset that, “That’ll never happen to me.” “I’m only going down the road.” “I’ve only had a couple of drinks, I’m fine.”

That mindset resulted in receiving several DUI convictions, totaling one vehicle, and loss of my driving privileges- indefinitely.

It can happen to you.

Photo By Author: Authors Father’s Truck 2010

Carelessness. Drinking blurred my ability to make rational choices. The image you see above was taken after I decided to sneak out at night to go down the road and drink with friends. I knew I probably shouldn’t have been driving, but I needed to return the truck before my dad woke up, and it was only two minutes down the road.

I headed for home, making the decision to look down at my phone - next thing I remember is the sound of the windows shattering and the glass hitting me in the face.

I had sideswiped a telephone pole and completely mangled the vehicle. I knew my dad was definitely going to kill me now. I am lucky I walked away with minor injuries compared to most that are involved with drinking related incidents.

Not until after the fact, did I consider how bad things could’ve really been, or what would’ve happened if I had someone else in the vehicle.

There were consequences to pay for my actions. However, my life would have played out completely different if God forbid I hurt someone else, or died. I am grateful that is not how my story unfolded. That does not go to dismiss all of the other countless lives permanently impacted by one individuals choice to get behind the wheel.

The Stark Statistics

The numbers speak for themselves. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 30 people in the United States die every day in motor vehicle crashes that involve an alcohol-impaired driver. That's one death every 50 minutes. These tragic incidents are entirely preventable, yet they persist, highlighting a critical area where society must continue to focus its efforts.

Understanding the Risks

Alcohol impairs crucial functions necessary for safe driving, including reaction time, coordination, and decision-making abilities. Even a small amount of alcohol can affect your driving skills. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in most states is 0.08%, but impairment begins well below this threshold. At a BAC of 0.02%, drivers experience a decline in visual functions and the ability to perform two tasks simultaneously.

Technological Solutions

Advancements in technology offer new ways to combat drinking and driving. Ignition interlock devices, which require a driver to blow into a breathalyzer before starting the vehicle, are becoming more common as a preventative measure for those convicted of DUI offenses. Additionally, smartphone apps can help individuals assess their impairment level and make safer choices about getting behind the wheel.

I was required to have an interlock system installed in my vehicle. They cost money to install, monthly fees, as well as an uninstallation fee. In the winter months, I used to have to keep a blowdryer and an extension cord in my back seat, because the harsh Wisconsin weather would result in my device freezing and locking up. There is nothing more inconvenient than freezing your ass off in your car that won’t start because you’re unable to use your device.

Legal and Financial Consequences

The consequences of drinking and driving extend beyond potential harm to yourself and others. Legal repercussions include hefty fines, license suspension, increased insurance premiums, and even imprisonment. A DUI conviction can also affect employment opportunities and personal relationships, creating long-lasting impacts on your life.

My drinking took a hard hit to my life, and rightfully so. After being convicted of several DUI’s through the years I had accumulated thousands of dollars in fines and court costs. My lawyer fees, I am still paying off to this day. I spent time in jail. I was required to wear an ankle monitor for a year that cost me 200$ a week. My insurance skyrocketed. Eventually, I lost my driving privileges indefinitely - forcing me to have to walk to and from my jobs every single day. Those criminal convictions will forever be on my record. So, please - think before you drink!

The Human Cost

Behind every statistic is a story of loss and heartache. Families torn apart, promising lives cut short, and survivors left to cope with the aftermath. The emotional and psychological toll of drinking and driving extends far beyond the immediate victims. Friends and families are left to navigate the complex web of grief, guilt, and anger, often questioning how such a preventable tragedy could have occurred.

I have countless close friends and family members that have been directly impacted by drinking and driving. My grandfathers brother was riding in a vehicle, the driver was impaired, the vehicle hit a tree, and he was ejected through the windshield. A classmate of mine in high school, went to the mall with her boyfriend. They were exiting the parking lot and a drunk driver ran the red light, hitting their vehicle, and killing her boyfriend instantly. The result of making the choice to get behind the wheel recks havoc on so many others, long after that first initial choice is made.

Taking Responsibility

Preventing drinking and driving starts with personal responsibility. If you plan to drink, make arrangements in advance for a safe ride home. Use public transportation, call a taxi, or rely on rideshare services. Designate a sober driver or plan to stay overnight. It’s crucial to have a plan in place before the first drink is poured.

The Role of Society

While individual responsibility is key, society as a whole must also play its part. This includes stricter enforcement of DUI laws, the implementation of more rigorous screening and intervention programs, and ongoing public education campaigns. Communities can support these efforts by fostering environments that discourage drinking and driving and offering alternative solutions for safe transportation.

Drinking and driving is not just a personal choice; it's a public health issue that requires a collective response. By understanding the risks, taking personal responsibility, and supporting societal efforts to prevent impaired driving, we can save lives and build a safer, healthier future.

Remember, the choice to drink and drive doesn’t just affect you—it can change countless lives in an instant. Make the right decision and help keep our roads safe for everyone.

Together, through awareness, education, and responsible action, we can make significant strides in reducing the tragedies caused by drinking and driving. Every step taken towards prevention is a step towards saving lives and fostering a community where safety and well-being are prioritized.

Addition Tools & Resources:

If you or someone you know is facing legal challenges related to drinking and driving, our friends over at Meirowitz & Wasserberg, LLP offer invaluable services and insights that may be of great help.

Enjoy their resourceful and educational impaired driving and prevention blog. >>Click Here To Access<<

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