Alcohol-induced traffic accidents kill around 30 people daily in the USA. It implies that every 48 minutes a life ends on the road due to a drunk driver. Here are various facts about drunk driving and the remedial measures that can ensure greater safety on the roads.
Drunken Driving Statistics from 2009
In 2009, out of the total number of fatal road accidents that occurred in USA, 32% happened due to drunk driving. Around 10, 839 people lost their lives in DUI cases.
Moreover, 14% of children (0-14 years) who died in traffic-related mishaps had drunk driving as a reason for their deaths. Sadly, half the number of these children was riding with the drunk drivers.
High-risk Groups
Studies prove that young people are more prone to cause accidents due to alcohol-impaired driving. The people in the age group of 21-24 are at the greatest risk.
Among the motorcyclists that were killed in 2009, 29% reported BACs of 0.8% or higher. Interestingly, it has been found that the age group of 40-44 meets maximum deaths due to drunk driving.
The statistics also revealed that the drivers who were found to have BAC of 0.08% or more and died in traffic-accidents had 8 times greater probability of having faced DWI charges already in the past.
Why a Drunk Driver is a Threat to Himself and Others
The alcohol concentration in blood causes impaired driving. Driving with BAC level of 0.08% or greater is illegal in the USA. A drunk driver with BAC of 0.08% or higher loses his ability to detect danger. His muscle coordination suffers and his speech, hearing and memory are impaired. He loses control over speed and his capacity to process information worsens.
He is very likely to cause fatal accidents, killing himself and others in the process.
Strong Measures Required to Reduce DUI Deaths
Laws against drunken driving should be made more stringent. Aggressive implementation of the BAC level of 0.08, strong action against the drivers who are below the age of 21 years and increasing awareness of safe driving practices are some effective measures that can prevent DUI fatalities.
What You Can Do
If you have been drinking, take a cab home. Do not let your friends drive after drinking. When you attend a party with a group of friends, identify one person in the group as the sober driver.