The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) is joining national efforts to highlight the importance of responsible choices during Alcohol Awareness Month this April. This annual observance serves as a crucial reminder about the dangers of impaired driving and the broader impact of alcohol misuse on individuals, families, and communities across Alabama.
While many Alabamians enjoy social gatherings and celebrations that may involve alcohol, it is vital to remember that alcohol significantly impairs judgment and reaction time, making driving after drinking extremely dangerous and potentially deadly. In 2023, 196 people lost their lives in Alabama due to alcohol-related traffic crashes.
“Our message is simple: if you plan to drink, please do not drive,” said Allison Green, Drive Safe Alabama coordinator. “There are always alternative ways to get home safely. Designating a sober driver, using a ride-sharing service, calling a taxi, or utilizing public transportation can save lives and prevent devastating consequences.”
Effects of impaired driving extend far beyond statistics:
- Increased Risk of Crashes: Alcohol reduces coordination, slows reaction time, and impairs decision-making, dramatically increasing the likelihood of traffic crashes.
- Severe Injuries and Fatalities: Impaired driving can lead to severe injuries for drivers, passengers, and other road users, often with life-altering or fatal outcomes.
- Legal and Financial Consequences: Driving under the influence (DUI) in Alabama carries serious penalties, including license suspension, fines, legal fees, and even jail time. This can significantly impact a person’s employment, insurance rates, and overall quality of life.
- Emotional Toll: Alcohol-related crashes inflict immense emotional pain and suffering on victims, their families, and the wider community.
ALDOT encourages all Alabamians to take the following steps to ensure safer roads for everyone:
- Plan Ahead: If you know you’ll be drinking, designate a sober driver before you go out.
- Use Alternative Transportation: Take advantage of ride-sharing services, taxis, or public transportation if a designated driver isn’t available.
- Be a Responsible Host: If you’re hosting a gathering where alcohol is served, ensure your guests have safe transportation options. Stop serving alcohol well before the end of the event.
- Speak Up: If you see someone who is about to drive after drinking, don’t hesitate to intervene and offer them a safe alternative.
- Buckle Up: Wearing a seatbelt is crucial, even if you haven’t been drinking. It’s your best defense in any traffic crash.
Let us all commit to making responsible choices and prioritizing safety on Alabama’s roads. By working together, we can reduce the number of alcohol-related crashes and ensure that everyone arrives home safely. Drive sober, Alabama – it’s a decision that can save lives.
