It’s National Impaired Driving Prevention Month! Formerly known as National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month, this campaign was started in 1992 in response to the increased number of impaired driving accidents that happen in December. Because of the combined effect alcohol and marijuana have on cognitive, perceptual and motor functions, impaired driving significantly increases the likelihood of fatal car crashes. In fact, a recent study spanning 5 years found that during the period from Christmas to New Years an average of 300 people die each year from drunk driving crashes. Besides alcohol and drugs, we have now added the problem of distracted driving as a third real danger at the wheel.

What can you do?

#1 Drive safely this holiday season

Drink wisely, plan ahead for rides, and don’t drive if you are under the influence. Hold off on those texts and calls and educate friends and family about the dangers of impaired driving.

#2 Encourage those around you to use ride share programs or other driving services

These programs save lives and provide a safe, inexpensive alternative for those not fit to drive. You may even be able to find a holiday discount code. Remind everyone that the best way to drive when they’re intoxicated is to not drive at all.

#3 If you have any students or clients with drinking, drug or marijuana violations, consider having them take one of our intervention courses

These courses help individuals identify why they use, the dangers of driving under the influence of a substance, and strategies to avoid getting in impaired driving situations in the first place. Through personalized feedback and motivational interviewing techniques, these courses encourage true behavior change. Check out Under the Influence, Other Drugs, and Marijuana 101 at dev.3rdmil.com to learn more!

This year, let’s not wreck the holidays with impaired driving.

Learn more about our online intervention and prevention education courses or call us at (888) 810-7990.