Did you know that one person is killed by a drunk driver ever 45 minutes! In 2008, an estimated 11,773 people died in DUI related accident in the United States.
Just last Saturday, an infant was thrown from a vehicle into Lake Marion near Santee, South Carolina during a three car crash on Interstate 95 that was caused by a drunk driver. The driver was charged with driving under the influence involving death. Seven additional people were hurt in the accident.
During the summer the number of people who choose to drive under the influence increase and the number of fatalities sky rocket. Memorial Day and Independence Day are to of the biggest holidays of the Summer. People have cookout, go boating, and hang out with friends and family. Summertime fun often includes beer, wine, and other spirits. Unfortunately, after these get-togethers, some choose to drive home intoxicated.
Most people don’t realize that driving with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level of 0.08 or higher is considered illegal in the United States and this includes South Carolina. People who drive drunk with a BAC level of 0.08 or higher are 11 times more likely to be involved in a car accident than a sober person.
Five tips you can use to help stop drunk driving:
1) Know the facts about drinking and driving. Believing the statistics can scare you straight.
2) Be a responsible host. Keep an eye on guests in your home. Cut some off if you feel they have had too much to drink and NEVER let someone drive drunk.
3) Report suspicious drivers that may be drunk to the police. It has been reported that drivers haven driven drunk an average of 87 times before they are arrested. If you see someone driving erratically or swerving, make sure you notify the police.
4) Teach your children the importance of not driving while under the influence. In 2008, 81.1% of tenth graders said it was “very easy” or “fairly easy” to get alcohol.
5) ALWAYS have a designated driver or offer to be the designated driver!
