The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. Families and friends gather to exchange gifts, share meals, and create lasting memories. However, this festive spirit often comes with a dark side: the increased prevalence of drinking and driving during the holiday season. And no other holiday in the calendar year is drinking more associated with than New Year’s Eve.
Tulsa law enforcement agencies are aware of increased drinking and driving during the holiday season and will be running DUI checkpoints in parts of Tulsa County on New Year’s Eve.
The Tulsa World reported that There were 149 collisions during the 2020 New Year’s Eve holiday period, the OHP reported, adding that two of them were fatal and 27 were alcohol or drug-related.
Why Increased Drinking and Driving During the Holiday Season?
The festive atmosphere, combined with time off work and an abundance of parties, creates an environment where overindulgence is common. Many people underestimate the effects of alcohol, believing they can “handle it” or that they’re “just going a short distance.” Unfortunately, even small amounts of alcohol impair judgment, reaction time, and motor skills — a dangerous trio when behind the wheel.
A Deadly Combination
Statistics show that the holiday season sees a sharp rise in alcohol-related accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly one-third of all traffic deaths in the United States involve drunk drivers. During the holidays, this number spikes, with celebratory gatherings often featuring alcoholic beverages.
The agency also reported on its website that 1,062 people died in drunk driving crashes in 2022 – the most recent data year available and the highest number of fatalities since 2007.
The consequences of driving under the influence (DUI) are devastating. Beyond the potential loss of life, DUIs can result in severe injuries, legal repercussions, and emotional trauma for victims and their families. For the driver, the aftermath includes fines, jail time, loss of driving privileges, and a tarnished reputation.
Protecting Yourself and Others
- Plan Ahead: If you plan to drink, arrange for a designated driver, use a rideshare service, or stay overnight at your celebration location.
- Host Responsibly: If you’re hosting a gathering, provide non-alcoholic beverage options and encourage guests to make safe transportation plans.
- Be Vigilant: If you notice someone attempting to drive after drinking, intervene. Offer to call them a cab or find another way to get them home safely.
- Stay Alert on the Road: Be cautious of other drivers, especially during peak holiday times. Impaired drivers are often on the roads late at night or after big events.
The Cost of Negligence
Drunk driving is not just a personal mistake; it’s a community hazard. One moment of poor judgment can shatter countless lives. The financial toll of DUIs is also significant, with costs ranging from legal fees to medical bills and property damage. However, these numbers pale in comparison to the emotional and psychological scars left behind.
A Season for Safety
The holidays are meant to be a time of celebration, not tragedy. By making responsible choices and encouraging others to do the same, we can ensure that the season remains joyful for everyone. Let’s prioritize safety, cherish our loved ones, and commit to keeping our roads free from impaired drivers. Fry & Elder wants all Oklahoma drivers to give the gift of safety this holiday season: don’t drink and drive
Leave a Comment