Drinking and Driving is a problem on Alaskan roads every day, but it’s more of a problem during the holidays. NHTSA reports that every day, about 28 people in the United States die in drinking and driving crashes — that means drinking and driving kills one person every 52 minutes. The tragedy of these deaths is felt year-round, but for many, most strongly during the holidays.
While many Holiday festivities changed in 2020 than in years past, the consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol remain the same. Alaska State Troopers and Alaska Wildlife Troopers across Alaska began focused patrols for impaired drivers in December 2020. These focused patrols continued during Alaska’s 2021 holidays known for increases in alcohol related crashes.
The holidays are a great time to spend with family and friends. Do your part to make the roads safer.
Avoid Drinking And Driving
If you are invited to a holiday party, plan ahead by having a designated driver. Programs like Uber and Lyft make it easier to find a ride home, making the roads safer for everyone.
If you plan to drink alcohol, be responsible and turn your keys over to the host. Stay where you are, if possible. Do not get behind the wheel of a vehicle if you have been drinking alcohol.
If you host an event, require your guests to turn over their keys when they arrive. Do not let family and friends leave your event if they have been drinking alcohol.
Signs Of Drinking and Driving
Signs of dangerous – and possible drunk driving may include:
- weaving in and out of lanes
- driving with windows rolled down in cold weather
- passing on curves and double yellow lines
- straddling the center line
- making wide or high speed turns out of assigned lanes
- driving so slowly as to impede other traffic under current conditions
- tailgating
Report Drunk Drivers
If you are on the road and see someone driving dangerously, call 911 and report dangerous driving. It is up to Alaskans to help keep drunk drivers off Alaskan roads. Stay clear of drivers who appear intoxicated. If necessary, pull your vehicle over to let them pass. Celebrate Safely.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Sources: NHTSA; Alaska Department of Public Safety; Alaska Highway Safety
Image Source: DontDrunkDrive
