NATIONAL DRUNK & DRUGGED DRIVING PREVENTION MONTH

NATIONAL DRUNK & DRUGGED DRIVING PREVENTION MONTH

National Drunk & Drugged Driving Prevention Month, or National 3D Prevention Month in December serves as a reminder to never drive impaired.

#DrunkDruggedDrivingPreventionMonth

If you're home or traveling during the holidays, you may be planning to go to a few parties, get-togethers, or even just to have a few drinks with the family. If you have been drinking or are under the influence of drugs, do not operate a vehicle. Remember, you are committing the crime of impaired driving whenever your ability to operate a vehicle is impaired by the effects of:

1. Illegal drugs

2. Prescription medication

3. Over-the-counter medication

4. A blood-alcohol concentration of 0.08 grams per deciliter or higher.

If you are taking part in activities like this month, or EVER, do not make the mistake of getting behind the wheel. It could cost you or someone else their life.

So, why now? The time between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day is described by the National Association of Drug Court Professionals as "One of the deadliest and most dangerous times on America's roadways due to an increase in impaired driving." This month we are all encouraged to drive sober, and defensively.

HOW TO OBSERVE #DrunkDruggedDrivingPreventionMonth #3DPreventionMonth

Do not drive while you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It puts not only you at risk, but everyone else around you. Think before you act. Use #DrunkDruggedDrivingPreventionMonth or #3DPreventionMonth to post on social media.

Accidents caused by driving under the influence are, of course, totally preventable. This year and every year to follow, commit to act responsibly and drive safely. Here are a few tips to keep in the back of your mind as you attend holiday parties and other get-togethers this year.

1. Always plan ahead. Designate a sober driver, and arrange for an alternative route home just in case.

2. If you are a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, or even friend, talk to your loved ones to remind them how important it is to be responsible and stay safe.

3. If you are the one hosting the party, always offer a non-alcoholic option for drinks for your guests so they can still have a good time eating and drinking with everyone else!

NATIONAL DRUNK & DRUGGED DRIVING PREVENTION MONTH HISTORY

Every president of the United States since the year 1981 has shown a commitment to stopping impaired driving by proclaiming December as National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month.