Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious problem in the United States. About 36 people die every day from motor vehicle crashes that involve alcohol-impaired drivers (CDC, 2009). In the United States in 2006 alcohol-impaired driving crashes accounted for one-third of all traffic-related deaths. The majority of those drivers were 21 to 24 years of age (33 percent), followed by those ages 25 to 34 (29 percent) (NHTSA, 2008). In addition, young adults under the legal drinking age reported driving while alcohol-impaired more than any other age group. In 2006, 19% of drivers ages 16 to 20 who died in motor vehicle crashes had been drinking alcohol (CDC, 2009). Seemingly, those at higher risk are college students.
A FEW SIMPLE DUI PREVENTION TIPS
- Designate a sober driver (someone who hasn’t had any alcoholic drinks) for outings involving alcohol use.
- Don’t drink on an empty stomach.
- Alternate between alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Drink slowly.
- Avoid playing drinking games.
- Don’t allow friends or anyone else in your presence to drive drunk.
- Never get into a car with a person who has been drinking.
- If possible, spend the night where the activity is held.
- Call a taxi or a friend for a ride home.
- Don’t try to calculate your body’s alcohol metabolism rate. Time is the only way to sober up!
- Remember - one standard alcoholic drink is equal to: One 12oz. beer or one shot (about 1.5 ounces) of 80 proof liquor or 4-5oz. glass of wine. Keep in mind that one 12 oz. red party cup can contain as many as nine standard drinks depending on how much alcohol it contains.
- And last, but certainly not least…
DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE!
Aware Awake Alive
Save a life from alcohol poisoning
KNOW THE SIGNS
- Mental confusion
- Unresponsive
- Snoring-gasping for air
- Throwing up
- Hypothermia—cold and clammy skin
- Erratic breathing
- Loss of consciousness
- Paleness or blueness of skin
KNOW WHAT TO DO
- DON’T WAIT FOR ALL SYMPTOMS-JUST ONE CAN BE DEADLY
- CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY—SAVE ALIFE
IF YOU THINK THEY NEED HELP--THEY NEED HELP
For more information—visit awareawakealive.org