The truth is clear. Once you consume illegal drugs, strong prescription medications, alcohol, or (in the worst case scenario) a combination of these substances, your senses will be impaired moderately or severely. Regardless of the amount you have consumed, driving while under the influence of a chemical substance places you, as well as any passengers who accompany you, at a significant risk. Let’s take a look at how this major problem can be counteracted.
A Closer Look at Trends in Drug-Impaired Driving
Between 2013 and 2014, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determined that 20% of motorists (approximately 1 out of 4 people) had consumed mind-altering drugs prior to operating their vehicles. As part of this survey, officials confirmed these numbers showed a significant increase from statistics collected in 2007.
In light of the opioid epidemic and the continuing legal debate over marijuana, the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) developed strong programs to combat this growing trend of impaired driving. As of March 2018, the following objectives have been established:
- Creating a nationwide debate about DUI
- Developing campaigns to create awareness about drug-impaired driving
- Developing educational programs about drug-impaired driving
- Initiating rigorous tactics for identification, intervention, and prevention of the problem
As part of its 12-month initiative, NHSTA will inspect screening devices that measure the content of oral fluids (e.g. saliva) to test subjects for drugs faster and more efficiently and modernize early detection systems (to prevent crashes related to drug-impaired driving).
Hopeful Trends and Dangerous Trends
According to additional studies, approximately 22% of U.S. teenagers revealed that their friends drive while under the influence of drugs, particularly marijuana. On a side note, further studies revealed that 88% of high school students strongly believe drug-impaired driving is reckless and unsafe, while 68% believed drug-impaired driving resulting from marijuana consumption is dangerous.
Nevertheless, motor vehicle accidents (MVA) still account for the majority of untimely deaths amongst young adults ages 16 to 19. In fact, 43.6% of drivers who were involved in violent crashes tested positive for drugs.
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance abuse disorder or addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Out counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug addiction troubles today.
