Are you aware that an estimated 17 million people have driven drunk at least one time in the United States on back roads and on highways in the course of just one year. This information is according to a government study released today, August 25th.
A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) survey conducted 2 years back concluded that the that 20 percent of the people surveyed 16 years of age and older “confessed” to driving within two hours of drinking.
Based on the survey results, people still drive drunk even when they know they are impaired. This study also found that drinking and driving was a problem for males between ages of 21 and 24.
On a positive note, more then half of the people surveyed said that they feel that drinking and driving is hazardous and it is a widespread issue.
David Strickland, an Administrator with the NHTSA, said that we have to be more active in doing something about drinking and driving in this country.
To help combat drinking and driving, the government is spending about $13 million on advertising to make the public aware that there is going to be increased law enforcement through the Labor Day weekend.
So be safe and come up with a plan before going out, not just Labor Day Weekend, but every weekend you plan on partying and getting Zasted! Be sure to pick a Designated Driver, have a cab company on speed dial, or if your within walking distance, just walk. Its true what the signs say, “DUI – You Can’t Afford It”.