By Max Dorfman, Analysis Author, Triple-I
As the vacation season continues to ramp up, it’s vital to do not forget that this time of yr is especially dangerous for driving. That’s why December has been formally designated Drugged and Drunk Driving Prevention month.
Throughout the Christmas holidays, alcohol-impaired fatalities in 2018 comprised 37 p.c of complete visitors fatalities, in comparison with 29 p.c complete for all instances of the yr. In complete, there are greater than 750 fatalities in December because of drunk driving, in response to the U.S. Division of Transportation.
In keeping with Nationwide Security Council, the typical variety of visitors deaths throughout New Yr’s Day over the past 5 holidays is sort of 68 p.c higher than the typical variety of visitors deaths throughout nonholiday intervals, with 175 deaths in comparison with the same old 104 deaths.
Drunk driving is just not the one motive folks get into harmful accidents through the holidays. Excessive climate may also contribute to dangers through the blustery winter season, together with snow, black ice, excessive winds and hail. Fatigued and pressured driving can also be a problem through the holidays, with people doubtlessly touring additional than they often do. And in 2020, anxiousness associated to the coronavirus pandemic might make these stress-related points worse.
With this in thoughts, it’s vital to recollect some tricks to stay secure whereas driving through the vacation season, together with:
- Drive defensively by taking precautions whereas driving, paying shut consideration to the automobiles round you. Even in case you’re not ingesting or driving recklessly, others could also be.
- Don’t drive in case you are ingesting, ensuring you have got secure, sober transportation, no matter how far you’re touring.
- Plan for inclement climate by checking climate forecasts and altering your plans if essential.
Keep in mind: the vacations is usually a busy and annoying time for folks, however that’s no motive to let your guard down whereas driving.
For extra secure driving suggestions try this Triple-I video.
