Obviously, you can expect three things during the New Year’s Eve celebrations – laughter, parties, and lots of alcohol. Unfortunately, many years’ end celebrations conclude in a shower of champagne, beer, vodka, or all of the above as people let their inhibitions run wild on the last night of the year. While the average teetotaler typically sits back and enjoys the iced tea, however, the risk-takers might take more of a chance by drowning in their favorite drug of choice. Now, you might be able to understand why New Year’s isn’t just the riskiest time of the year but also one of the most dangerous times. After one night of partying, a simple drive along the road can turn into a disaster around every December 31st. Let’s take a closer look at the reality of drunk driving during New Year’s.
Staggering Death Count
Based on statistics collected by SafeAuto.com, on an average weekend night during New Year’s, 71% more accidents have been caused by people influenced by drugs or alcohol between December 31 at 6:00PM and January 1 at 6:00 AM. (However, according to recent MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) statistics, the total number of fatalities caused by drunk driving incidences have dropped by an estimated 50%.) Nevertheless, the dangers of DUIs are still more prevalent during this time of year than any other time. In fact, SafeAuto.com also reports that, in 2013 alone, 140 people died from alcohol-induced car accidents on New Year’s Eve.
Unfortunately, MADD indicates that 21 to 24-year old drivers are the most likely group to be involved in drunk driving incidences during this holiday season.
How You Can Stay Safe
Whether you choose to indulge in booze during New Year’s or not (we certainly hope you don’t), you should always have a game plan in case someone in your party loses control and downs too many Jack Daniels. Here are some steps you can take to stay safe:
- Always pick a designated driver.
- Have your drunk friend stay at another friend’s house until the next morning.
- Never let a drunk person get behind the wheel of a vehicle.
- Arrange transportation for your excitable guests.
- If a person looks and behaves intoxicated, take their keys away. You have every right to.
- Call someone for a ride if you feel uncomfortable.
- If you are hosting the party, just don’t serve alcohol. Your friends will have to “make do.”
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder
Always remember that alcohol does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of 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. Our 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 alcohol abuse or addiction troubles today.