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Each year, thousands of lives are tragically cut short or forever altered by drunk driving accidents. Any time more drivers are on the road, the risk of accidents increases, especially during holidays. Labor Day is no different. It’s often a time for people to get in their last celebration of the summer, which usually includes drinking alcohol. When alcohol is involved, bad decisions are often made, including choosing to get behind the wheel.
We’ve all seen the devastating impact these crashes can have on families and communities, not just here in Arkansas but all across the country. That’s why Denton, Zachary, and Norwood PLLC Law Firm fully supports the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, a national initiative aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of drunk driving and increasing enforcement efforts. Not only do we support this initiative during Labor Day weekend, but every day it’s important to remember our responsibility to always drive sober or get pulled over.
The Dangers of Drunk Driving
Drunk driving is more than just an impaired reaction time. Alcohol affects judgment, coordination, and the ability to make rational decisions. Even a tiny amount of alcohol can significantly increase your risk of causing a serious accident. While you can make the decision not to drive drunk, you cannot control others on the highway. We often don’t think about other drivers being intoxicated. You never know if the person driving the car next to you or the semi-truck in the opposite lane is operated by someone under the influence.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Statistics
In 2020, there were over 11,654 drunk driving fatalities in the United States. That translates to one alcohol-impaired driving fatality every 42 minutes. These accidents are not only deadly for those under the influence but also for innocent passengers and people sharing the road.
During the 2022 Labor Day holiday period, 490 crash fatalities occurred nationwide. Of these fatalities, 190 or 39% involved a drunk driver and 25% involved drivers who were driving with a BAC nearly twice the legal limit (.15+ BAC). Alarmingly, among drivers between the ages of 18 and 34 who were killed in crashes over this holiday period, 47% were drunk, with BACs of .08 or higher.
Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over: Saving Lives Through Enforcement
The “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign plays a crucial role in deterring drunk driving. By increasing law enforcement presence on the roads, especially during high-risk periods like holidays and weekends, the campaign sends a clear message: driving under the influence will not be tolerated. This increased enforcement not only removes drunk drivers from the road but also serves as a deterrent to others who may be considering driving after consuming alcohol.
What You Can Do to Stay Safe
The responsibility for preventing drunk driving accidents lies with all of us. Here are some steps you can take to keep yourself and others safe:
- Always designate a sober driver before going out.
- If you’ve been drinking, call a taxi, rideshare service, or a friend for a ride home.
- Never get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol.
- If you see someone who appears to be intoxicated and preparing to drive, try to intervene or call the police.
We Fight for Victims of Drunk Driving Accidents
Unfortunately, despite the efforts of campaigns like “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” drunk driving accidents still occur. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car or semi-truck accident caused by a drunk driver, you have rights. At Denton, Zachary, and Norwood PLLC Law Firm, we are dedicated to holding drunk drivers accountable for their actions and helping injured victims recover the compensation they deserve.
Contact Denton, Zachary, and Norwood PLLC Law Firm
If you’ve been injured in a drunk driving accident, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced team of attorneys today for a free consultation. We’ll discuss your case, answer your questions, and help you understand your legal options. Let’s work together to make our roads safer for everyone. Please schedule a free consultation at one of our convenient locations in Little Rock, Conway, or Cordova. We’re here to get you the help you need now—contact us today!