Enid, OK – Every day, approximately 37 people in the United States lose their lives in drunk-driving crashes—an average of one death every 39 minutes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 13,524 people died in alcohol-impaired driving traffic crashes in 2022. These tragedies were entirely preventable.
Alcohol impairs brain function, reducing thinking, reasoning, and muscle coordination—critical skills needed to safely operate a vehicle. As alcohol levels increase, its effects on the central nervous system worsen.
Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC), the measure of alcohol in a person’s blood, is a key indicator of driving impairment. At a BAC of .08 grams per deciliter (g/dL), crash risks rise dramatically. In response, all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico enforce laws making it illegal to drive with a BAC of .08 or higher (.05 in Utah). Even small amounts of alcohol (BAC of .01 to .07 g/dL) can significantly impair driving ability. In 2022, 2,337 lives were lost in alcohol-related crashes involving drivers within this lower BAC range.
### Tips for Responsible Driving:
– **Plan Ahead:** Arrange for a sober driver or use a taxi or ride-hailing service before drinking.
– **Be a Friend:** Stop anyone who has been drinking from driving. Take their keys and help them find a safe ride.
– **Host Responsibly:** If hosting an event with alcohol, ensure guests have sober rides home.
– **Always Buckle Up:** Seat belts remain your best defense against impaired drivers.
– **Report Impaired Drivers:** If you suspect someone is driving under the influence, contact law enforcement immediately.
By making responsible choices, lives can be saved.
