The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) created “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Weeks” to educate about the dangers and consequences of drunk driving. The program runs from Aug. 29 through Sept. 5.
Tragically, one person is killed about every 45 minutes in a drunk-driving crash, with more than 11,000 lives lost each year.
The best way to observe Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Weeks is to be a sober driver, find a sober driver, offer to be a sober driver, or stay home.
It’s always best to make a plan before you begin drinking. We all know that judgment goes out the window as soon as the alcohol touches your lips.
If you are not drinking, watch your family and friends, ensuring they get home safely. Or, if you know they are going out drinking, suggest they call you if they need a sober driver.
Blood Alcohol Concentration Predictable Effects on Driving
- .02 (BAC) – Decline in visual functions & Decline in the ability to perform 2 tasks simultaneously.
- .05 (BAC) – Difficulty steering, reduced coordination, ability to track moving objects, and response time to emergency driving situations.
- .08 (BAC) – Short-term memory loss, impaired perception, reduced concentration, lack of speed control, reduced information processing capability.
- .10 (BAC) – Reduced ability to maintain your lane and brake adequately.
- .15 (BAC) – Substantial impairment in controlling your automobile and visual and auditory information processing.
Did you know that in Florida, it is illegal to drive with a .08% BAC or higher if you are over 21 years old? However, thanks to Florida’s zero-tolerance policy, if you are under 21, the legal BAC drops to .02%.
Possible Consequences of Drunk Driving
- Facing Charges: Charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies.
- Driver’s license revocation, fines, and jail time.
- Expenses: A first-time offense can cost upwards of $10,000 in legal fees & fines.
- Ignition Interlock Device: Many states will require DUI drivers to install an ignition interlock device.
- Injury or Death
Never hesitate to report an impaired driver. Call 911; you could be saving their lives or the lives of other innocent drivers on the road.
For more information about Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Weeks, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website.