It's a sobering thought to know that around 32% of crash fatalities on U.S. roads involve a drunk driver. This means about 13,524 deaths are preventable each year, highlighting just how important it is to avoid getting behind the wheel after you've been drinking.
Drinking and Driving Statistics
In June 2023, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released its 2021 Fact Sheet. It details key findings about driving under the influence and the impact it has on U.S. roads:
Of the total annual crash fatalities involving a drunk driver, 60% of those deaths were the driver. The other 40% accounts for passengers, occupants of other vehicles, and others such as pedestrians and cyclists.
Drivers aged 21 to 24 years old and 25 to 34 years old each account for 27% of fatal crashes that involve drunk drivers.
For every female driver involved in a fatal alcohol-related crash, there were four male drivers.
The authorities consider blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 g/dL intoxicated. Drunk drivers involved in fatal crashes often have far higher BAC levels. Around 67% had levels at or above 0.15 g/dL.
The weather only plays a small role in drunk driving crash fatalities. About 91% of fatal crashes occurred on clear or cloudy days, while only 7% happened in rainy conditions and 2% in other conditions.
Laws Against Drinking and Driving
Some states implement stricter penalties on driving under the influence (DUI) related offenses. They're also pretty tough on first-time offenders, and it's not a simple "do better next time" slap on the wrist. Even first-time offenders experience harsh penalties for DUIs. Here's a look at some of the states that are known for taking a harsh stance on alcohol-related driving violations.
1. Arizona
In 2007, Arizona implemented a law that places first-time offenders under severe restrictions. Here, if you are pulled over for drunk driving and found to have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or an alcohol or drug test is not available, you lose your license right away. Then, you must undergo an alcohol or drug screening before you can apply to reinstate your license or receive a restricted permit.
In addition, first-time offenders are required to receive the following penalties:
No less than 10 consecutive days in jail
No less than a $1,250 fine
Mandatory alcohol screening, education, and treatment
A mandatory certified ignition interlock device on your vehicle
Mandatory community service
2. Oregon
The state of Oregon does not allow individuals charged with DUI to exchange a guilty plea for a lower charge. If you are convicted of a first-time DUI, you can expect strict penalties, including:
A minimum of 48 hours of jail time (or 80 hours of community service) to a maximum of up to 1 year in jail
A fine between $1,000 and $6,250
1-year license suspension
Required 1-year ignition interlock device
3. Massachusettes
The strict drunk driving laws in Massachusettes mean that a first-time offender who is 21 years of age or older can expect to receive the following penalties:
Fines between $500 and $5,000
Jail time of up to 2.5 years
Driver's license suspension for 1 year
Required drug and alcohol education class
Up to 2 years probation
4. Utah
Utah is one of the few states with a lower blood alcohol content (BAC) threshold for a DUI. Unlike most other states in the U.S., which use 0.08% as the legal limit, Utah's limit is 0.05%. Drivers found guilty of a DUI for the first time face significant penalties, including:
A mandatory 2 days in jail or 48 hours of community service, a maximum of 180 days of jail
A minimum $700 fine, plus surcharges and fees
Mandatory drug and alcohol screening, potentially required assessment and education
Potential for court-ordered treatment or 24/7 sobriety program
Potential for a required ignition interlock device
5. Ohio
In Ohio, driving drunk falls under the conviction of Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence (OVI). Penalties for first-time convictions may include:
3 to 180 days in jail or a Driver Intervention Program
Fines of $375 to $1,075
License suspension of 1 to 3 years
Probation for up to 5 years
Protect Yourself from the Dangers of Drunk Driving
One of the best ways to protect yourself from the impacts of drinking and driving is to commit to never getting behind the wheel if you're less than 100% sober. But sometimes, that's not enough. Even if you're extremely responsible when it comes to not driving under the influence, there's no telling what other drivers may do.
Our defensive driving course can teach you the skills you need to protect yourself and others from dangerous and unexpected driving situations. It's a fun and affordable way to become a better driver. Check it out today!
Updated 05/24/24
