Everyday, 37 people die in drunk-driving accidents in the US, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) —- this makes it one in 39 minutes of people losing their lives to a preventable death.
When coming from a party, it’s important that you take the right steps to avoid drunk driving home. Here are 5 steps you can take to keep yourself and others on the road safe after a fun weekend:
1. Plan Ahead for a Sober Ride
Drunk driving fatalities are more likely to happen from Fridays to Sundays, especially for those going on a night out. When attending an event or party, make sure to have a ride home, especially if you will be consuming alcohol.
You can either ask a sober friend to drive you home (or better yet, be the sober friend!), use a ridesharing app, or use any form of public transportation. By having a plan in advance, not only will you make sure you avoid making any impulsive decisions, but you can also ensure that you get home safely.
2. Track Your Recovery Progress with a Sobriety Calculator
If you’ve committed to quitting alcohol, using a sobriety calculator can motivate you to stay on track by counting the days, weeks, or years you’ve been sober. Celebrating milestones in your recovery journey can help reinforce your decision to stay alcohol-free and avoid risky behaviors like drunk driving.
3. Join Online AA Meetings for Support
For those struggling to manage their drinking, online AA meetings provide a convenient way to connect with others on the same journey. These meetings offer advice, accountability, and encouragement, especially for anyone tempted to drink and drive. Remember, the support you need might just be a click away.
4. Recognize the Risks of Being a Functioning Alcoholic
Driving under the influence often points to deeper struggles with alcohol. A functioning alcoholic may appear to handle responsibilities well but could still face serious consequences like drunk driving. Acknowledging this behavior is critical to seeking help before it leads to irreversible outcomes.
5. Seek Help Through Drug Rehab Facilities if Needed
If you find it hard to quit drinking, professional help is available. Drug rehab facilities provide structured programs that address addiction and offer tools for long-term recovery. This is especially important for those experiencing alcohol withdrawal symptoms like tremors, anxiety, or nausea, which require medical attention for safe detoxification.
Staying Safe when Driving
Drunk driving is 100% preventable, and making responsible choices after a party can save lives. Whether it’s planning a ride, tracking your recovery with a sobriety calculator, or seeking help through the use of “AA meetings near me”, taking action is key. Together, we can work toward a future where every decision puts safety first.
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