December is National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month

Posted in Auto Insurance , Health Insurance

December 9th, 2009

Before you head onto the roads this December, remember to combat the practice of driving while impaired by alcohol and drugs as promoted by National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month. Originally getting its start in 1982 by former President Ronald Reagan, the month is dedicated to increasing awareness of this dangerous practice and decreasing the number of injuries and deaths as a result.

Why This Month is Important

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 36 people in the U.S. die every day from vehicle crashes that involve alcohol. The National Commission Against Drunk Driving also notes that 41 percent of all traffic crashes are alcohol-related. With these high accident rates, it’s no surprise that in total, $51 billion in auto insurance and medical costs are associated with alcohol-related crashes every year.

Suggestions from the CDC

In honor of this special month, and to help you stay safe during the holiday season, the CDC offers tips to help protect you and your family:

• Plan ahead before partying: If you plan on drink while out celebrating the holidays, be sure to designate a non-drinking driver to help you get home safely.
• Take a friend’s keys: If you are hanging out with a friend who drove alone and is now intoxicated, take the keys to stop them from driving under the influence.
• Be a good host: If you are throwing a holiday party and know you’ll be serving alcohol, take on the responsibility of reminding your guests to either drink the clearly-marked alcohol-free beverages or ask them to bring or plan to leave with a responsible sober driver.

There is nothing more devastating than losing a loved one – or forcing someone else to lose a loved one – due to an accident caused by drunk driving. So take on the responsibility for everyone around you by promoting the message of National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month in December and beyond.

If you liked these, here are some other car insurance tips for you to consider.