A 2010 report by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) found that over 1.4 million drivers were arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Although it may seem like a lot of individuals, this figure represents less than 1% of the total number of drivers that actually do drive each year under the influence without getting caught.
The statistics involving drivers under the influence are quite alarming.
– Nearly one in every three people will be involved in a DUI related accident during their lifetime
– Close to 30 people die every single day as the result of a DUI related accident
– In 2010, over 30% of all drivers in fatal accidents on weekends were alcohol-impaired
– DUI related car accidents are the leading cause of death in teens and young adults
Unfortunately, individuals arrested for driving under the influence drive close to 100 times drunk before getting caught.
Driving under the influence is defined as driving while intoxicated by drugs or alcohol. States consider a blood alcohol level above 0.08% as being intoxicated. If an individual is arrested for DUI, they face serious consequences.
The Cost of a DUI
A person driving under the influence is putting their lives and the lives of others on the road at risk. Thousands of accidents occur each year as a result of driving while intoxicated. When an individual is arrested for DUI without causing an accident, they often face a criminal conviction and a heavy stack of fines.
On average, drivers across the USA can expect to pay close to $20,000 in fines and court fees for their first DUI conviction. Several states require drivers arrested for DUI to take classes, attend meetings, and go without driving for six months to a year. In addition, once a DUI convinced individual is able to drive again, they are required to pay more for their auto insurance coverage. Repeat DUI offenders may face jail time or probation and they often have to equip their vehicles with ignition interlock devices that can cost over $1000 to install.
It is not worth it
If you have an alcohol abuse problem, chances are you have been behind the wheel at least one time. This is an extremely dangerous situation to put yourself and others on the road in. This situation can lead to extensive fines and/or jail time, injury, and even death in many cases.
The issue of alcohol intoxication is that individuals often āblackoutā or are unable to rationalize what they are doing. Alcohol is never a requirement for a person to have a good time. Instead, individuals should consider trying other forms of entertainment that are less harmful to themselves and others around.
At Asana Recovery, we see individuals every day battling alcohol abuse disorders. Individuals often start young and get trapped in a lifelong cycle. If you or someone you know is battling an alcohol or drug addiction, it is not too late to seek help. Call us at (949)416-3341 to get the help you need today.
