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Essay on Dangers Of Drinking And Driving

Students are often asked to write an essay on Dangers Of Drinking And Driving in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

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100 Words Essay on Dangers Of Drinking And Driving

Introduction.

Drinking and driving is a dangerous act. It refers to operating a vehicle while your ability to do so is impaired by alcohol. This behaviour is risky and unlawful. It can lead to severe consequences, including accidents, injuries, and loss of life.

The Effect on the Driver

Alcohol affects the human body in many ways. It can slow down your reaction time, blur your vision, and make it hard to focus. This means that a person who has been drinking may not be able to drive safely, leading to accidents.

Potential Accidents

When a person drives after drinking, they put everyone on the road at risk. They might not see other cars, pedestrians, or obstacles. This can result in collisions, which can cause damage to property, injury, or even death.

Legal Consequences

Drinking and driving is against the law. If you get caught, you could face fines, lose your driver’s license, or even go to jail. The legal consequences are designed to discourage this dangerous behaviour.

250 Words Essay on Dangers Of Drinking And Driving

What is drinking and driving.

Drinking and driving, often called drunk driving, is when someone drives after drinking alcohol. This is dangerous and against the law. When people drink, it becomes hard for them to think clearly or move normally. This can lead to accidents if they choose to drive.

Why is Drinking and Driving Dangerous?

Drinking makes it hard to focus and react quickly. It also blurs vision and makes it hard to judge distance. All these things are important when driving. If a driver can’t do these things well, they may hit another car, a person, or an object. This can lead to injuries or even death.

Consequences of Drinking and Driving

The law is strict about drinking and driving. If caught, the driver may go to jail, pay a big fine, or lose their driver’s license. They may also have to pay for any damage they cause while driving drunk.

How to Avoid Drinking and Driving

The best way to avoid drinking and driving is to plan ahead. If you know you will be drinking, arrange for a ride home. You could ask a friend who is not drinking to drive, call a taxi, or use a ride-sharing app.

In conclusion, drinking and driving is a dangerous choice that can lead to accidents, injuries, and legal trouble. It is always best to plan ahead and find a safe way home after drinking.

500 Words Essay on Dangers Of Drinking And Driving

Drinking and driving, often called drunk driving, is the act of operating a vehicle after consuming alcohol. When you drink, alcohol enters your bloodstream and affects your ability to think clearly and react quickly. This is why driving after drinking is dangerous.

Effects of Alcohol on Driving Skills

Alcohol can harm your driving skills in several ways. It slows down your reaction time, making it harder to stop suddenly or change direction quickly. It can also blur your vision, making it difficult to see clearly. Alcohol can make you feel overconfident, leading you to take risks that you wouldn’t normally take. All these effects combined can result in a fatal accident.

The Dangers of Drinking and Driving

Another danger is the legal consequences. If you are caught drinking and driving, you can be fined, lose your driving license, or even go to jail. These penalties are severe because the act is so dangerous.

Preventing Drinking and Driving

There are many ways to prevent drinking and driving. One of the most effective is to plan ahead. If you know you will be drinking, arrange for a designated driver, use a taxi, or stay overnight. Another way is to educate people about the dangers of drinking and driving. Schools, communities, and parents can play a crucial role in this.

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Drunk Driving Essay: Effects, Dangers, and Prevention of Drinking and Driving

Drinking and driving essay: abstract, drunk driving essay: introduction.

  • Effects of Drinking and Driving
  • Dangers of Drinking and Driving

Essay on Drunk Driving: How to Stop the Issue

Drunk driving essay: conclusion.

Driving under the influence of alcohol is a common practice in all countries where alcohol consumption is legal. This behavior has emerged as an important issue affecting road safety over the past few decades. This free drinking and driving essay discusses the issue of drunk driving and its effects. It begins by highlighting how drinking impairs the driver, therefore making him unfit to drive. Further, this “Dangers of Drinking and Driving” essay shows how drink driving leads to road accidents that may result in fatalities. It also has a negative economic impact on the individual and the country as a whole. The drunk driving essay proposes public awareness campaigns and clear laws and penalties for drunk driving as solutions to the problem of driving under the influence.

Driving under the influence of alcohol has emerged as an important issue affecting road safety over the past few decades. Approximately one of our every five driver in the US involved in a fatal accident is found to have some alcohol concentration in his/her blood (Yadav & Miwako, 2015). In spite of the obvious danger that drink-driving poses, people continue to engage in the dangerous habit of drinking while under the influence.

Wolff (2013) notes that drink-drivers continue to drive even when they have very high Blood Alcohol Concentration levels. This behavior exposes more people to the risks associated with a DUI. This paper will discuss the issue of driving under the influence of alcohol with a focus on the effects of alcohol on the driver, the effects of drink-driving and how drink-driving can be stopped.

Effects of Drinking and Driving: Essay Body

Alcohol is an enjoyable substance that serves an important role in the society. People use it for enjoyment purposes and it is often consumed to help in relaxation and in celebrations. However, this substance has many toxic effects on the consumer. It might lead to intoxication and reduce the ability of an individual to reason properly. The WHO (2015) documents that alcohol leads to impairment by either depressing or stimulating the brain. The negative effects of alcohol on a driver increase with the increased consumption of alcohol. Wolff (2013) reports that there is “a clear relationship between increasing alcohol consumption and risk of a road traffic accident” (p.42). This has some significant implications for a driver.

Alcohol consumption can cause the person to make poor judgment on various road related issues such as sticking to the speed limit. Sonja (2006) reveals that most of the individuals charged with drink driving are not even aware that their BAC is above the legally accepted level.

They feel sober and are unaware that the alcohol will have an adverse effect on their driving. Alcohol also increases the reaction time of the driver causing him to take more time to engage in various driving operations such as braking or turning to avoid hitting an object. The visual sharpness of the driver is also decreased and his/her vision is poorer than that of drivers who have not consumed alcohol. Drunk drivers often drive at high speeds due to the poor judgment caused by alcohol and they are likely to run off the road or crash into fixed roadside objects.

Dangers of Drinking and Driving: Essay Body

The most devastating effect of driving under the influence of alcohol is that it increases the risk of being involved in a fatal car crash. A report by the World Health Organization (2015) acknowledges that driving while drunk is an important factor influencing the risk of a road traffic crash in all countries that allow alcohol consumption. People who drive while under the influence of alcohol have a significantly higher risk of being involved in a road accident than sober drivers. Research indicates that in developed countries, including the US, over 20% of drivers who die in car crashes have excess alcohol in their blood (WHO, 2015). Drinking while under the influence has a worse impact on the road safety of low-income and middle-income countries. Yadav and Miwako (2015) document that 33-69% of fatally injured drivers in these countries have some alcohol content in their blood.

The accidents caused by drivers who were on the road while under the influence of alcohol also have an economic impact. The loss of life causes the country to lose valuable taxpayers. In case a person survives the crash, high medical costs might be incurred. The crashes also lead to the damage of property, including the vehicle involved in the accident. The WHO (2015) estimates that drink-driving crashes in the US cost the country $1.1 billion each year. Countries therefore incur significant financial losses due to drunk driving.

Considering the significant negative effect of driving while under the influence of alcohol, it would be important to come up with ways to reduce incidents of driving under the influence. Drunk driving can be reduced by increasing public awareness on the dangers of this habit. In most societies, alcohol consumption is a socially acceptable behavior. Campaign efforts should be engaged in to show the public why drinking under the influence is an anti-social behavior that should be avoided. Public awareness can be raised using mass media campaigns. According to Yadav and Miwako (2015), media campaign that emphasized the consequences of alcohol-induced driving led to a significant decrease in the number of alcohol-related road accident.

The government should come up with laws that clearly define what level of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is illegal and the penalties to be imposed on drivers who are drunk. Most drunk drivers engage in this behavior since the consequences are not severe enough to serve as a deterrent (Kimler & Humphreys, 2013). Law enforcement officers should be vigilant in identifying and arresting individuals engaged in drunk driving.

At the same time, the legal system should be swift to enforce penalties on people charged with DUI. In addition to this, police should maintain high visibility enforcement of drink-driving laws to deter offenders. Research by Sonja (2006) indicated that when drivers perceived the chance of being stopped by the police and charged for DUI as being very small, they were likely to continue driving while under the influence. However, when the drivers are aware that the law enforcement system is strict and dedicated to imposing heavy penalties for drunk driving, they are less likely to engage in this activity.

Implementing these measures will lead to a decrease in the number of people driving under the influence. This will have a positive impact on road safety. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2011) declares that the deaths caused by drink driving are preventable. By keeping drunk drivers off the roads, these deaths can be stopped and the safety of millions guaranteed annually.

This paper set out to discuss driving under the influence of alcohol, its effects and how this risky behavior can be stopped. The paper began by noting that alcohol drinking is a socially acceptable habit that has some positive benefits. However, drinking has some effects on the individual. The paper has shown that drinking renders the individual unfit to drive. Drinking under the influence increases the risk of engaging in a road accident and this can lead to fatalities. Road accidents caused by drink drivers have a negative impact on the economy of the country. Safety conscious people should therefore avoid drinking while under the influence and encourage their friends to avoid this risky behavior.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2011). Policy Impact: Alcohol Impaired Driving. Web.

Kimler, B., & Humphreys, K. (2013). Losing Your “License to Drink”: The Radical South Dakota Approach to Heavy Drinkers Who Threaten Public Safety. Brown Journal of World Affairs, 20 (1), 267-279. Web.

Sonja, F. (2006). Motives behind risky driving – driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs .

Wolff, K. (2013). Driving under the influence of drugs. London: Her Majesty’s Stationery Office. Web.

World Health Organization (WHO). (2015). Why is a drinking and driving programme necessary? Web.

Yadav, R., & Miwako, K. (2015). A systematic review: effectiveness of mass media campaigns for reducing alcohol-impaired driving and alcohol-related crashes. BMC Public Health, 15 (1), 1-17. Web.

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StudyCorgi. (2020, October 3). Drunk Driving Essay: Effects, Dangers, and Prevention of Drinking and Driving. https://studycorgi.com/driving-under-the-influence-of-alcohol/

"Drunk Driving Essay: Effects, Dangers, and Prevention of Drinking and Driving." StudyCorgi , 3 Oct. 2020, studycorgi.com/driving-under-the-influence-of-alcohol/.

StudyCorgi . (2020) 'Drunk Driving Essay: Effects, Dangers, and Prevention of Drinking and Driving'. 3 October.

1. StudyCorgi . "Drunk Driving Essay: Effects, Dangers, and Prevention of Drinking and Driving." October 3, 2020. https://studycorgi.com/driving-under-the-influence-of-alcohol/.

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StudyCorgi . "Drunk Driving Essay: Effects, Dangers, and Prevention of Drinking and Driving." October 3, 2020. https://studycorgi.com/driving-under-the-influence-of-alcohol/.

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111 Drunk Driving Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Drunk driving is a serious issue that affects thousands of people each year. Whether it’s a drunk driver causing a fatal accident or someone getting a DUI, the consequences of driving under the influence can be devastating. If you have been tasked with writing an essay on drunk driving, it’s important to choose a compelling topic that will engage your readers.

To help you get started, here are 111 drunk driving essay topic ideas and examples:

  • The impact of drunk driving on society
  • The legal consequences of drunk driving
  • The emotional toll of losing a loved one to a drunk driver
  • The effectiveness of DUI checkpoints
  • The role of alcohol education programs in preventing drunk driving
  • The relationship between alcohol advertising and drunk driving
  • The effects of alcohol on driving abilities
  • The prevalence of drunk driving among college students
  • The dangers of buzzed driving
  • The impact of technology on preventing drunk driving
  • The relationship between alcoholism and drunk driving
  • The cost of drunk driving accidents to society
  • The role of law enforcement in preventing drunk driving
  • The effectiveness of ignition interlock devices in reducing drunk driving
  • The impact of media coverage on public perceptions of drunk driving
  • The role of peer pressure in drunk driving incidents
  • The relationship between alcohol consumption and risky driving behaviors
  • The consequences of a DUI conviction on a person’s life
  • The impact of drunk driving on insurance rates
  • The role of parents in preventing underage drinking and driving
  • The dangers of driving the morning after drinking alcohol
  • The relationship between alcohol availability and drunk driving rates
  • The effectiveness of sobriety checkpoints in deterring drunk driving
  • The impact of stricter drunk driving laws on reducing incidents
  • The role of alcohol addiction treatment in preventing repeat DUI offenses
  • The dangers of driving under the influence of drugs
  • The effectiveness of public awareness campaigns in reducing drunk driving
  • The impact of peer intervention programs on preventing drunk driving
  • The relationship between alcohol abuse and mental health issues
  • The consequences of drunk driving for victims and their families
  • The role of bartenders and servers in preventing drunk driving
  • The effectiveness of designated driver programs in reducing drunk driving incidents
  • The impact of social norms on drunk driving behaviors
  • The relationship between alcohol consumption and risky driving decisions
  • The consequences of drunk driving for professional drivers
  • The role of technology in detecting drunk drivers
  • The effectiveness of mandatory alcohol education programs for DUI offenders
  • The impact of alcohol addiction on a person’s ability to make responsible decisions
  • The relationship between alcohol availability and drunk driving rates in different countries
  • The consequences of drunk driving for underage offenders
  • The role of friends and family in preventing loved ones from driving drunk
  • The effectiveness of community-based prevention programs in reducing drunk driving
  • The impact of alcohol-related injuries on healthcare costs
  • The relationship between alcohol consumption and aggressive driving behaviors
  • The consequences of drunk driving for commercial drivers
  • The role of peer pressure in influencing drunk driving behaviors
  • The effectiveness of alcohol treatment programs for DUI offenders
  • The impact of drunk driving on workplace safety
  • The relationship between alcohol use and impaired decision-making abilities
  • The consequences of drunk driving for first-time offenders
  • The role of alcohol abuse in causing repeat DUI offenses
  • The effectiveness of school-based prevention programs in reducing underage drinking and driving
  • The impact of alcohol availability on drunk driving rates in rural areas
  • The relationship between alcohol consumption and fatal car accidents
  • The consequences of drunk driving for military personnel
  • The role of law enforcement in enforcing drunk driving laws
  • The effectiveness of zero-tolerance policies for underage drinking and driving
  • The impact of alcohol-related incidents on college campuses
  • The relationship between alcohol use and risky sexual behaviors
  • The consequences of drunk driving for professional athletes
  • The role of social media in raising awareness about the dangers of drunk driving
  • The effectiveness of peer education programs in preventing drunk driving
  • The impact of alcohol-related incidents on academic performance
  • The relationship between alcohol consumption and domestic violence
  • The consequences of drunk driving for individuals with prior DUI convictions
  • The role of alcohol abuse in causing impaired driving skills
  • The effectiveness of community service programs for DUI offenders
  • The impact of alcohol-related incidents on family relationships
  • The relationship between alcohol use and criminal behavior
  • The consequences of drunk driving for individuals with substance abuse issues
  • The role of public transportation in reducing drunk driving rates
  • The effectiveness of breathalyzer tests in deterring drunk driving
  • The impact of alcohol abuse on a person’s

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Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol: Findings from the NSDUH, 2002-2017

1 College of Social Work, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States.

Michael G. Vaughn

2 School of Social Work, College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63103, United States.

3 Graduate School of Social Welfare, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.

Christopher P. Salas-Wright

4 School of Social Work, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, United States.

Millan A. AbiNader

5 School of Social Work, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ 85006, United States.

Mariana Sanchez

6 Robert Stempel College of Public Health and Social Work, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, United States.

Author Statement

Michael G. Vaughn: Conceptualization, Methodology, Writing - review & editing

Christopher P. Salas-Wright: Conceptualization, Methodology, Writing - review & editing

Millan A. AbiNader: Investigation; Writing - review & editing

Mariana Sanchez : Validation; Writing - review & editing

Based on a nationally representative adult sample, the present study examined the prevalence and trends of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol in the United States from 2002 to 2017.

Using data from the 2002–2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, the prevalence of DUI of alcohol in 2012–2017 were estimated to test for changes in trend and to identify populations at elevated risks of alcohol-involved driving.

Since 2002, the prevalence of DUI of alcohol has gradually decreased from a high of 15.1% in 2002–2004 to 11.8% in 2012–2014 and 8.5% in 2016–2017, indicating percent decreases by 21.6% and 43.7%, respectively. While decreasing trends were observed across all major sociodemographic and criminal justice subgroups (except older adults), men, young adults, Whites, and those with higher household income continued to be associated with greater risks of alcohol-involved driving. Nevertheless, DUI arrests continued to increase among women, narrowing the gender gap.

Discussion:

Despite the decreased alcohol-involved driving over the past decade, there remains worrisome levels among young adult males. This underscores the need for alcohol policies and public awareness campaigns targeting young adult males. Moreover, further research is needed to elucidate the potential differences in the populations who reported driving under any influence of alcohol and who were involved in fatal crashes.

1. Introduction

Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol is a significant public health problem. Over 30% of motor vehicle traffic fatalities were caused by alcohol-impaired driving, resulting in 10,874 lives lost and $44 billion costs incurred in 2017 alone ( Naimi et al., 2018 ; National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2018 ). Additionally, nearly 1 million arrests were made for DUI during the same year ( The Federal Bureau of Investigation, n.d. ). Several key policies have been implemented to reduce DUI of Alcohol. For instance, by 2004, all states enacted new legal limits of alcohol-impaired driving at a blood alcohol concentration [BAC] of 0.08g/dL. By 2011, 42 states adopted so-called the “Administrative License Revocation” law, which enables states to suspend or revoke driver licenses when a driver was found driving with a BAC of 0.08% or above ( Ying et al., 2013 ).

Despite recent policy changes at the federal and state levels, evidence is limited about how many Americans are involved in drinking and driving and how these rates have changed. NHTSA releases data on drivers’ alcohol involvement, but this data only captures those involved in fatal traffic crashes. Some studies ( Quinlan et al., 2005 ; Schwartz & Beltz, 2018 ) report population-based estimates based on national surveys such as the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), but these studies also have limitations. For instance, the BRFSS asks whether respondents drove when they have had “perhaps too much” drink during the past month ( Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2018a ). Due to the possibility of subjective interpretation of the question, consistent estimation and comparison of the DUI of alcohol prevalence may not be warranted across respondents and years.

To inform prevention efforts while triangulating existing evidence, further evaluation of trends in the prevalence of DUI of alcohol and identification of populations at heightened risk is critical. Especially, evidence on the scope of the population who drive under any degree of alcohol influence is important to provide insights on more general alcohol-involved driving behaviors and to enable early detection and intervention of problematic driving activities. Moreover, large variations in DUI of alcohol patterns and risks across population subgroups (e.g., age, sex, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status [SES], criminal justice history) require investigations into identifying those at greatest risk ( Calling et al., 2019 ; Casswell et al., 2003 ; Dickson et al., 2013 ; Impinen et al., 2011 ; Schwartz & Beltz, 2018 ). For instance, Schwartz and Beltz (2018) showed that men’s alcohol-impaired driving rates continue to remain higher than women’ despite an overall decreasing trend. Yet, DUI arrests have increased among women since 1985, narrowing the gender gap ( Schwartz & Beltz, 2018 ; Schwartz & Rookey, 2008 ). In a study examining major racial/ethnic groups, Whites were more likely to be involved in alcohol-impaired driving than African-Americans and Hispanics–though people of color were overrepresented in arrests and crashes ( Romano et al., 2010 ). Studies also point to the different drinking and driving behaviors by prior DUI and other criminal arrests. Labrie and colleagues (2007) found that a history of anti-social behavior and criminal justice system encounters were as important as prior alcohol-related problems in predicting a higher recidivism rate.

The present study addresses prior gaps by examining the prevalence and trends of DUI of alcohol in the United States since 2002 using data from National Survey of Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). We present population-based prevalence estimates for past-year DUI of alcohol among all respondents aged 18 or older and various subgroups by sociodemographic characteristics and criminal justice involvement. Then we tested for changes in trend in DUI of alcohol by comparing with the rates from 2002 to 2017.

2. Material and Methods

2.1. data and sample.

The NSDUH provides nationally representative cross-sectional estimates of substance use and behavioral health outcomes among non-institutionalized civilians aged 12 and older in the United States. In each year, multistage area probability sampling strategy was used to recruit participants, who were interviewed privately at their residence. To reduce socially desirable responding of sensitive behaviors, the interview was carried out using computer-assisted interviewing methodology as a confidential means of reporting. From the 2002–2017 NSDUH data, the present study included an analytic sample of 615,882 adults aged 18 or above (286,562 men and 329,320 women). More detailed descriptions of the NSDUH are available elsewhere ( Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality, 2018 ).

2.2. Measures

2.2.1. dui of alcohol..

All participants were asked: “During the past 12 months, have you driven a vehicle while you were under the influence of alcohol?” Those who reported yes were classified as having involved in DUI of alcohol and were coded as 1, and coded 0 otherwise. While this measure is fully comparable across years from 2002 to 2014, changes in the respondents eligible for DUI questions in 2015 and changes to the drug-related questions in 2016 require caution in comparing estimates between pre-2014 and post-2014 ( Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality, 2016 , 2017 ).

2.2.2. Sociodemographic factors and criminal justice involvement.

In addition to key sociodemographic characteristics including age, sex, race/ethnicity, household income, and urbanicity of residence, three indicators (0=no, 1=yes) of criminal justice system involvement in the past 12 months were also examined. These included: any arrests and booking, not counting minor traffic violations, arrests/booking for DUI, and probation/parole status.

2.3. Statistical Analysis

Using the fully comparable data, we first assessed the prevalence of DUI of alcohol in the early 2000s (2002–2004) and 2010s (2012–2014) for the total sample and sociodemographic and criminal justice involvement subgroups. Samples of three adjacent years were combined to obtain a more stable and consistent estimation. Additionally, the prevalence in years 2016–2017 was examined to provide the most recent rates of DUI of alcohol. Second, annual trends of DUI of alcohol among the whole sample and the trends of DUI arrests and booking among those reporting past-year DUI of alcohol were examined while stratifying by key demographic factors. Third, we tested the significance of the DUI of alcohol trends by including year as a continuous independent variable in multiple logistic regression models (while controlling for the sociodemographic factors) as the CDC (2016) suggests. All estimates were weighted to account for the NSDUH’s stratified cluster sampling design ( Substance Abuse and Mental Health Data Archive, 2014 ). While supplementary analyses including the 2015–2017 data follow similar steps above, adjusted weights were created to account for three additional years of data in consistent with the CDC (2018b) ’s technical guideline.

3.1. Trends in DUI of Alcohol among U.S. Adults

Table 1 displays the prevalence and trends of DUI of alcohol from the early 2000s to 2010s among the full sample and subgroups by demographic characteristics and criminal justice involvement. The prevalence in DUI of alcohol decreased from 15.1% in 2002–2004 to 11.8% in 2012–2014, indicating a 21.6% reduction. This decreasing trends were supported by test of trends for 2002–2014 (AOR = 0.967, 95% CI = 0.963–0.971) and 2002–2017 (AOR = 0.956, 95% CI = 0.953–0.958) as shown in Table A.1 .

Past Year Prevalence of Self-Reported Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol among Adults in the United States, NSDUH 2002–2017

Primary Analysis w/ Fully Comparable DataSupplemental Estimates
2002–20042012–2014Contrasting: 2002–2004 v. 2012–20142016–2017
%95% CI%95% CIΔ % change%95% CI
15.114.8–15.511.811.6–12.1−3.3−21.68.58.2–8.8
Age
 18–2526.125.6–26.517.116.6–17.5−9.0−34.510.710.2–11.2
 26–3421.720.8–22.617.817.0–18.6−3.9−18.112.111.4–12.9
 35–6413.713.2–14.111.310.9–11.8−2.3−17.08.88.4–9.2
 65+3.02.5–3.84.03.5–4.6+1.0+32.63.43.0–3.8
Sex
 Female10.410.0–10.78.48.1–8.7−2.0−18.96.15.8–6.4
 Male20.319.7–20.915.615.1–16.1−4.7−23.211.110.7–11.5
Race/Ethnicity
 White16.916.5–17.313.513.1–13.9−3.5−20.510.19.8–10.5
 Black10.79.8–11.68.78.0–9.4−2.0−18.75.54.9–6.1
 Hispanic11.210.4–12.19.38.5–10.0−2.0−17.66.05.4–6.6
 Other9.58.4–10.67.76.9–8.6−1.8−18.55.04.4–5.8
Education
 Less than high school8.78.1–9.45.44.9–5.9−3.3−37.92.92.5–3.5
 High school13.713.2–14.29.59.0–10.0−4.2−30.75.75.2–6.2
 Some college18.017.4–18.613.312.7–13.8−4.7−26.19.18.7–9.5
 College or higher18.417.7–19.215.915.3–16.5−2.5−13.612.411.8–13.0
Marital Status
 Married11.811.4–12.110.19.6–10.5−1.7−14.47.67.3–7.9
 Divorced/Separated/Widowed12.812.0–13.69.38.6–10.0−3.5−27.36.96.4–7.4
 Never married24.924.3–25.617.216.6–17.7−7.7−30.911.210.8–11.7
Income
 <$20,00011.511.0–12.18.17.6–8.7−3.4−29.84.84.4–5.3
 $20,000–$39,99912.612.2–13.19.28.8–9.7−3.4−26.95.85.4–6.3
 $40,000–$74,99916.215.6–16.811.911.3–12.6−4.3−26.38.17.5–8.7
 ≥$75,00019.218.4–20.015.614.9–16.2−3.6−19.011.811.3–12.2
Urbanicity
 Non-metro12.511.4–13.68.47.5–9.3−4.9−32.86.65.9–7.5
 Metropolitan15.314.9–15.712.111.8–12.4−3.2−21.18.68.3–8.9
Any Arrests/Booking
 No14.514.1–14.811.511.1–11.8−3.0−20.78.38.0–8.6
 Yes38.736.5–40.930.027.9–32.2−8.6−22.320.718.4–23.1
Arrest/Booking for DUI
 No14.714.5–15.011.611.3–11.9−3.1−21.38.38.0–8.6
 Yes72.367.0–77.068.663.9–73.0−3.7−5.156.750.1–63.0
Probation/Parole
 No14.714.4–15.111.611.3–11.9−3.2−21.48.58.2–8.7
 Yes30.428.41–32.5524.221.9–26.54−6.3−20.712.010.1–14.3

Note: Estimates adjusted for survey design effects. According to SAMHDA, data from 2015–2017 are not fully comparable due to changes in survey design; therefore, we conduct separate supplemental tests. Δ pp = percentage point change from 2002–2004. % change determined by dividing the pp change by the 2002–2004 value.

All major sociodemographic and criminal justice subgroups except older adults aged 65+ showed decline in 2012–2014 and then again in 2016–2017 (see Table 1 ). In 2012–2014, 15.6% (11.1% in 2016–2017) of men and 8.4% (6.1% in 2016–2017) of women reported DUI of alcohol, indicating reductions by 23.2% and 18.9% from 2002–2004, respectively. Declines were gradual and consistent over the study period as shown in the upper chart of Figure 1 . Test of trends supported significant decreases over the past decade for both men (AOR = 0.966, 95% CI = 0.961–0.971) and women (AOR = 0.968, 95% CI = 0.963–0.974).

An external file that holds a picture, illustration, etc.
Object name is nihms-1588111-f0001.jpg

Prevalence of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) of Alcohol and DUI Arrests among Respondents Who Reported Past-year DUI of Alcohol by Sex in the United States, NSDUH 2002–2017.

Notes. Y-axis displays the survey adjusted prevalence for the corresponding outcome. According to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services’ Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality (2018) , data for self-reported DUI of alcohol from 2015–2017 are not fully comparable to data prior to 2015 due to changes in survey design.

Additionally, several findings from subgroup analyses are worth noting. First, respondents aged 26–35, due to their slower declining rate than those aged 18–25 (during 2002–2014, AOR = 0.967 for ages 26–34 and AOR = 0.941 for ages 18–25), matched the rates of DUI of alcohol of the youngest age group in 2012–2014. In 2016–2017, 12.1% of respondents aged 26–34 drove under the influence of alcohol, significantly higher than the rates among those aged 18–25 (10.7%). Second, Whites continued to be the racial/ethnic group with the highest prevalence of DUI of alcohol with more than one in every ten adults involved in drunk driving. Third, those with higher SES (i.e., household income of $75,000+ and college education or above) reported the highest prevalence in drunk driving and showed the smallest percent decline over the last decade compared to lower SES groups. Lastly, respondents who encountered the criminal justice system in the past year had greater likelihoods of DUI of alcohol. However, the magnitudes of the decrease in DUI of alcohol prevalence over time were similar to those who were not arrested or booked.

3.2. Trends of DUI Arrests/Booking among Those Engaged in DUI of Alcohol

The lower chart in Figure 1 displays the prevalence of DUI arrests and booking among those reporting DUI of alcohol in the past year. Overall, higher percentages of men reporting DUI of alcohol were more likely to be arrested and booked, ranging between 2.6% and 4.9%, with no significant time trends since 2002 (AOR = 0.999; 95% CI = 0.980–1.018 for 2002–2014). Additionally, significant and gradual increases in women’s DUI arrests and booking were observed from 1.2% in 2002 to 2.3% in 2014 (AOR = 1.055; 95% CI = 1.070–1.082) and 2.5% in 2017 (AOR = 1.040, 95% CI = 1.021–1.059).

4. Discussion

Although we identified decreasing trends in DUI of alcohol (except among older adults), we also found that nearly one in every ten adults in the United States drove under the influence of alcohol. Respondents who were aged 26–34, male, and White, and who reported higher SES as well as those with past-year criminal justice system encounters were more likely to engage in alcohol-involved driving in consistent with prior literature such as Caetano and McGrath (2005) and Labrie et al. (2007) . While greater reductions in the prevalence of DUI of alcohol among those under 26 years old is encouraging, preventive efforts targeting those in their late 20s and early 30s as well as other at-risk sociodemographic subgroups are needed. Moreover, special attention is needed with respect to observed gains in the number of women arrested. Increased alcohol use among women in adolescence and young adulthood as well as a lower legal limit of alcohol-impaired driving are considered important factors underlying the gendered DUI arrest trends ( Robertson et al., 2011 ; Schwartz, 2008 ). Thus, further investigation elucidating who were more affected by the recent alcohol use trends and driving behaviors among women involved in DUI of alcohol is warranted.

Importantly, national reports reveal that the number of alcohol-impaired drivers involved in fatal crashes have started to rise since 2011 in contrast to overall decreases in DUI of alcohol throughout the past decade (see Figure A.1 ). This implies that though fewer Americans drive under any influence of alcohol, the number of alcohol-impaired drivers who are involved in fatal crashes has not subsided since the early 2010s. Thus, it is important to implement measures focused on recalcitrant heavy drinkers who drive that may also have co-existent substance use problems ( Hingson et al., 2008 ). Unfortunately, this may be especially common among young adults who constitutes the largest age group involved in fatal drunk-driving crashes ( National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2018 ).

The present study has several limitations. First, data on DUI of alcohol and criminal justice involvement were derived from respondents’ self-reports. Social desirability bias and subjective assessment of intoxication may have affected responses’ accuracy. However, NSDUH’s adoption of the computer-assisted self-interviewing method is considered effective in encouraging honest disclosures. Second, DUI of drugs, an increasingly important part of the DUI problem ( Nochajski & Stasiewicz, 2006 ), was not examined in the study due to multiple changes in the NSDUH’s study designs specific to these questions. Third, DUI trends by different degrees of alcohol influence could not be examined due to lack of BAC information. Data on BAC are needed to better understand the slower reductions in traffic fatalities involving alcohol-impaired drivers than the rates of reductions in DUI of alcohol. Lastly, lack of contextual information limited further investigations into the underlying mechanisms of a higher DUI risk such as higher SES and neighborhood characteristics (e.g., ethnic densities, policing practices). Future research is needed to elucidate the role of salient individual (e.g., affordability, drinking behaviors) and neighborhood factors.

Despite the aforementioned limitations, the present study provides an important triangulation source for existing evidence which largely focuses on driving with BACs of 0.08g/dL or above. While we observed decreasing trends in DUI of alcohol influence among a nationally-representative U.S. adult sample, we also identified target groups for prevention efforts. Specifically, the present investigation points to further division between Americans who drive following heavy drinking episodes and the aggregates who refrain from drinking and driving at all. Alcohol policies and public awareness campaigns need to target young adult males (mostly White) concomitantly with additional research that sheds light on the potential differences in the populations who were involved in fatal crashes and who reported driving under any influence of alcohol.

  • About one in ten Americans are driving under the influence of alcohol(DUI-Alcohol).
  • Contrary to overall decreases, DUI-Alcohol remained unchanged among older adults.
  • The prevalence among those aged 26–34 exceeded the rates among those 25 or under.
  • Male, White, and higher income continue to be associated with a greater prevalence.
  • DUI arrests increased among Women, narrowing the gender gap.

Acknowledgments

This work was supported by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism of the National Institutes of Health [Award Number K01AA026645]. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of NIAAA or the NIH.

Test of Significance for Trends in Past Year Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol among Adults (Aged 18+) in the United States, NSDUH 2002–2017

Primary Analysis w/ Fully Comparable Data 2002–2014Supplemental Test 2002–2017
AOR95% CIAOR95% CI
Sex
 Male
 Female
Age
 18–25
 26–34
 35–64
 65+1.0160.989–1.0441.0050.988–1.022
Race/Ethnicity
 White
 Black
 Hispanic
 Other
Education
 Less than high school
 High school
 Some college
 College or higher
Marital Status
 Married
 Divorced/Separated/Widowed
 Never married
Household income
 <$20,000
 $20,000–$39,999
 $40,000–$74,999
 ≥$75,000
Urbanicity
 Non-metro
 Metropolitan
Any Arrests/Booking
 No
 Yes
Arrests/Booking for DUI
 No
 Yes0.9710.941–1.001
Probation/Parole
 No
 Yes

Notes. The models were adjusted for sociodemographic factors including sex, age, race/ethnicity, employment status, marital status, educational attainment, annual household income, and urbanicity of residence. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals in bold are statistically significant at .05. Caution in interpretation of the supplemental tests is needed due to potential incomparability of DUI data between pre- and post-Year 2015.

Figure A.1.

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Object name is nihms-1588111-f0002.jpg

Prevalence of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) of Alcohol and Number of Alcohol-Impaired Drivers Involved in Fatal Traffic Crashes, 2004–2017

Notes. Data on driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol and alcohol-impaired drivers were derived from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System, respectively. According to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services’ Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality (2018) , data for self-reported DUI of alcohol from 2015–2017 are not fully comparable to data prior to 2015 due to changes in survey design.

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Conflict of Interest

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Danger of Drunk Driving

How it works

“In 2016, 10,497 people died in the United States involving an alcohol-impaired driver, accounting for all traffic-related deaths,” (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). Drunk driving, a tragic occurrence in today’s society, has greatly affected many lives. The damage caused by an alcohol-impaired driver is extremely costly. Vision impairment, delayed reaction time, and unsteady balance are just among the few effects a drunk driver may experience. Due to the damage and tragedies associated with drunk driving, there must be higher restrictions on BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) levels, increased use of sobriety checkpoints, and expanded education about the dangers of drunk driving in schools.

Drunk driving has caused immeasurable damage and heartbreak for many individuals and communities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that, “in the United States, every day, twenty-eight people die in an accident involving a drunk driver, which equals to approximately ten thousand fatalities per year” (“Drunk Driving”). A driver under the influence of alcohol not only endangers his own life but also the lives of everyone around him. Although many perceive drinking as harmless, it can cost the lives of innocent people, especially when it involves an intoxicated driver operating a large vehicle. Every 48 minutes, one person passes away due to drunk driving-related crashes, and on average, a drunk driver will commit eighty-seven impaired drives before being apprehended (Wessel). Unfortunately, the significance of the dangers associated with drunk driving often eludes intoxicated drivers; however, the impacts of these actions can drastically alter the course of an individual’s life and those around them.

Drunk drivers often don’t perceive the potential consequences of their decisions, resulting in poor judgment calls. The public cost of drunk driving is an astronomical $115.2 billion per year in the United States, inclusive of attorney fees, court costs, and medical expenses (Gold). If an intoxicated driver is involved in a crash, he or she should be held responsible for all associated costs and participate in educational programs. Drunk drivers must complete these requirements prior to regaining their driving privileges. Although many continue to endanger lives due to their inability to recognize their problem, numerous solutions can address this issue.

One such solution is lowering the permissible BAC levels. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that “BAC levels at 0.08% or higher impair the driver’s ability to operate a vehicle effectively, also affecting their reaction time, vision, balance, and speech” (Lacey). Therefore, reducing the BAC level to 0.05% could be a proactive prevention measure. Decreasing blood alcohol concentration levels can result in fewer deaths and damage related to drunk driving. The elimination of alcohol from the body with a BAC level of 0.05% takes about three and a half hours, and with a BAC level of 0.08%, it requires approximately 6 hours (Preidt).

Basically, at a BAC level of 0.05%, it takes about half the time for alcohol to be removed from the body than at a BAC level of 0.08%. Many lives could be saved in that time period. Research shows that even at 0.05 BAC, the driver immediately experiences reduced reaction time, difficulty steering, and impaired judgment (Michael). When a drunk driver experiences reduced reaction time, they don’t react until the last second. Also, as the driver has difficulty steering, they begin swerving into other lanes, putting others at risk. Lowering the BAC limit could prevent the loss of many innocent lives, the driver himself, and everything around him.

There are many precautions against drunk driving, one of them being sobriety checkpoints. Sobriety checkpoints are where police stop most or some people driving through the checkpoints to check their level of alcohol. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “sobriety checkpoints are very expensive, but it is one of the best ways to prevent alcohol-impaired driving crashes” (“Motor Vehicle Safety”). Even though these checkpoints carry a big cost, they are one of the best ways to reduce the deaths and tragedies of many people. As more sobriety checkpoints are set up and are visible in many areas, drivers will think twice before drinking and driving. Law enforcement sets up sobriety checkpoints during holidays or weekends at night when there is usually a “significant spike” in alcohol-impaired driving crashes (Maryland). Sobriety checkpoints occur almost every night, not just on holidays or weekends.

Although the cost is very high, it’s better to have that person stopped than to let them go on and potentially cause a crash that takes the life of an innocent person. In many states, if a driver gets one drunk driving conviction, he or she is required to use an ignition interlock, which necessitates them to blow into a device before operating a vehicle (Wutke). Once a driver goes through the consequences of breathing into a device, he or she will be inclined to make smarter decisions and to think twice before drinking and driving. Ignition interlocks are embarrassing and frustrating to the driver and therefore will deter the driver from recurrently offending. Sobriety checkpoints and ignition interlocks are among the most effective ways to make people reconsider before drinking and driving, sparing them from the penalties of tickets and receiving a DUI.

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Writing an essay on drunk driving.

Drunk driving is a widespread problem that affects communities worldwide. It is estimated that alcohol-related crashes account for a significant proportion of road accidents each year, resulting in devastating consequences for individuals and society as a whole. These incidents are preventable, and raising awareness about the dangers of drunk driving is crucial in curbing its prevalence.

When writing an essay on drunk driving, it is essential to delve into the factors that contribute to this behavior. Here are possible points to explore:

  • Explore the physiological and psychological effects of alcohol on decision-making, reaction times, overall driving ability, and drunk driving essay examples.
  • Discuss the social and cultural factors that may influence individuals to engage in drunk driving and highlight the need for educational campaigns and strict enforcement of laws.
  • Consider addressing the legal consequences of drunk driving, such as license suspension, fines, and potential imprisonment.
  • Examine the role of technology, such as ignition interlock devices, in deterring individuals from driving while intoxicated.
  • Provide recommendations on how communities can work together to create a safer environment by implementing stricter regulations, promoting designated drivers, and fostering a culture of responsible alcohol consumption.

By raising awareness through compelling drunk driving essay free examples, we can contribute to fostering responsible behavior and saving lives.

Drunk Driving: Driving Under Influence

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Impaired Driving And Driving Under The Influence

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Taxing of Those Involved in the Drunk Driving

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Understanding the Impact of Drunk Driving on Other People

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Health and Law Consequences of Drunk Driving

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Best topics on Drunk Driving

1. Drunk Driving: Driving Under Influence

2. Impaired Driving And Driving Under The Influence

3. The Aftermath Of Driving Under Influence And Impaired Driving

4. Drunk Driving And Driving Under The Influence

5. Consequences of Driving under the Influence

6. The Problem of Driving under the Influence

7. Road Accidents in India and the Possible Solutions to This Problem

8. Sauses and Sonsequences of Distracted Teens Driving

9. Taxing of Those Involved in the Drunk Driving

10. Dangers and Penalties Behind Drunk Driving

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12. Health and Law Consequences of Drunk Driving

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Introduction

Drinking and driving, reference list.

Driving while drunk is collectively known as impaired driving where one drives when under alcohol or any other drug influence. In some countries such as Canada, drinking and driving is an offence and one could be jailed for although cancelling of driving licenses and fines are the most used punishments for such offences.

Driving while one is intoxicated or drunk poses great danger to drivers since they are more likely to get vehicle accidents which may involve injuries or even deaths to themselves and their passengers (if there are any). Many countries especially the UK have set different blood alcohol concentration for drivers to help prevent road accidents.

Driving while drunk has been, for many years, under discussions as the number of vehicle accidents are increasing every day in our roads. Drugs affect one’s ability to react to normal and small things that happen instantly especially when driving.

The concentration of alcohol in a driver’s blood is directly proportional to the driver’s ability to judge distances as well react appropriately to sudden happenings in the road. For instance, the number of deaths of single vehicle drivers registering high blood alcohol content is hundreds times more than those of the same drivers but with a zero blood alcohol content.

What makes the matter worse is the fact that some people drink to the extent of getting blurred vision but still they go on and drive. This situation is worsened more when a blurred driver is driving at night especially in areas where there are no street lights. To many people, drugs that affect one’s ability to drive safely are only the illegal drugs such as marijuana and bhang.

However, these include many of the prescription drugs and the over the counter drugs as long as the drug changes one’s mood or ability to see properly. Ignorance such side effects from the prescription drugs have contributed to a certain percentage of road accidents especially drugs that cause drowsiness. It is therefore up to the driver to plan not to drive if after all he is planning on drinking.

Enquiring from doctors about the side effects associated with prescription medications is also a good move in combating the problem. Some of these drugs, when combined with alcohol, have more drastic effects than either of them could by themselves (Hanson, 2009, p. 1).

Similar to many other social problems in the society today, drinking and driving has not been able to be stopped by the simple rules such as road signs.

As a result, other measures have been taken to effectively reduce the vice. Many countries have now implemented the automatic annulment of one’s license which has proved to be one of the most effective measures towards solving the problem because naturally, no one would want for his license to be cancelled. This has caused many drivers to be cautious on the same matter.

Mandatory jail sentence is also another effective way of getting drivers to avoid driving while they are drunk. Cessation of number plates may be as well an effective method of solving this problem. Laws should be put into place to prevent movement of certain vehicles whose drivers violate the ‘don’t drink and drive rule’.

The use of an alcohol blow gadget that detects the content of one’s alcohol has been helpful in determining drunk drivers in many countries. This makes it possible to identify and therefore punish the defective drivers. Setting up social programs that address the problems and risks associated with drunk driving may as well enlighten the drivers and give them a reason to take the matter seriously.

Restrictions to prevent night time driving especially among the youth who are always going to late night drinking parties could also prevent vehicle accidents. This may also involve getting a designated driver or one may choose to walk home instead of driving.

However, if you have to drink and drive, it is advisable for one to stay sober by either limiting the number of drinks (this differs with many people). Another way of staying sober is by eating protein rich foods such as especially meat while drinking to help lower the body’s rate of alcohol absorption (Hanson, 2009, p. 1).

It is disturbing how drinking and driving habits has caused many deaths on our roads. Many road accidents have been associated with careless driving resulting from drunk drivers. This is because many drugs lower the driver’s ability to coordinate his thoughts and respond to sudden happenings on the roads.

Due to the increase in road accidents, many countries have gone beyond the normal road signs rules to putting other strict measures into place in an effort to prevent these occurrences. Among the most effective measures that have worked in many nations are: jail sentencing or fining and annulment of one’s driving license.

By now it should be clear to every driver that careful driving (either sober or drunk), is all for one’s benefit as well as the other people around him. Drivers should therefore be responsible enough to ensure safety on the roads without being pushed by the law.

Hanson, D.J. (2009). Drinking & Driving. Web.

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IvyPanda. (2018, May 27). On the Issue of Drunk Driving. https://ivypanda.com/essays/drinking-and-driving/

"On the Issue of Drunk Driving." IvyPanda , 27 May 2018, ivypanda.com/essays/drinking-and-driving/.

IvyPanda . (2018) 'On the Issue of Drunk Driving'. 27 May.

IvyPanda . 2018. "On the Issue of Drunk Driving." May 27, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/drinking-and-driving/.

1. IvyPanda . "On the Issue of Drunk Driving." May 27, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/drinking-and-driving/.

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The Dangers Of Drunk Driving

Drunk driving is incredibly dangerous. It can often lead to accidents and cases of road rage. Road rage constitutes angry or aggressive behavior displayed by the driver of a vehicle. This can include driving in an unsafe manner, driving in a threatening manner, rude gestures, or even verbal insults. Road rage is particularly unsafe not just because of the car accidents it causes, but because it can lead to assaults. Extreme road rage can often lead to aggressive driving. Road rage and reckless driving and other criminal traffic offenses are taken very seriously.

Many victims, again, do not realize that they have the authority to report such offenses, nor do they take the time to do so and instead, allow the perpetrator to continue road rage cases in the future. Road rage and reckless driving laws include recklessly operating a motor vehicle which can include DUI charges as well as speeding. Things which can cause dangerous actions and which involve the willful disregard of the safety of others are considered road rage and reckless driving offenses. Road rage and reckless driving offenses are considered misdemeanor crimes. This means that the prosecution must prove beyond any doubt that you were involved and willfully disregarded the safety of others.

By not reporting the many cases of road rage, road rage is becoming worse and is still being left unchecked particularly in terms of things such as speeding. Speeding on its own does not generally amount to road rage and reckless driving but if road rage is not reported, as it should be, then those who speed aggressively can cause a safety issue for other drivers when they become angry. Speeding is often combined with other criminal traffic offenses to warrant a charge of road rage and reckless driving. If you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol and you knowing got behind the wheel while intoxicated, then you can be charged with road rage and reckless driving. The offense for road rage and reckless driving and the offense for a DUI are different charges. Road rage and reckless driving will be the lesser offense included in a case for the DUI.

If road rage occurs while intoxicated, the penalties can be very severe. Road rage and reckless driving charges involve the nature of how the vehicle was operated. If you are found to have been knowingly impaired at the time of operation then that can be considered road rage and reckless driving. If you run several stop signs and red lights while speeding in an area full of pedestrians and other cars, that traffic offense can be doubled as road rage and reckless driving. Intent is not an element of road rage and reckless driving. You do not have to intend to drive in a reckless manner, but the prosecution is required to prove that you were aware of the risk involved in your driving and disregarded it consciously. If you disregard the safety of other people and property this can be a major element in a road rage and reckless driving charge.

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PHS students learn the dangers of drunk driving with simulation

PARKERSBURG, W.Va . (WTAP)—The Parkersburg High School driver education class conducted a drunk-driving simulation to encourage road safety among students.

The students drove in a golf cart with drunk goggles on to simulate the impact that being drunk or impaired can have on your attention span, attention to detail, and reaction time.

One Parkersburg Police Officer also took students to the side to give them a sobriety test while wearing the goggles, so when they are of legal drinking age, they can identify when they have possibly had too much to drink.

One student who participated in the simulation today said this hands-on approach further ensured him how dangerous it could be for everyone involved.

“Well not only does it affect you it affects others. Even if they aren’t impaired or drunk it could kill someone or hurt their family,” said Ayden Whited.

The class has been going on for over 10 years, and Instructor Sharon Marks believes this simulation gives them a better way to learn outside of hearing stories.

See an error in our reporting? Send us an email by clicking here!

Copyright 2024 WTAP. All rights reserved.

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The deaths of Calgary Flames player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew – which happened after an alleged drunk driver hit them while they were cycling on a New Jersey country road – is a tragedy people have felt if they’re sports fans or not.

"You just don't think a tragedy will hit that close to home,” said Rob Matheson, a former president of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Cape Breton.

Matheson, big Flames fan, said the loss of someone as well-known as the player many called “Johnny Hockey” sends one of the strongest messages imaginable about the dangers of impaired driving.

"Unfortunately, tragedies like this do actually help (spread the message),” Matheson said. “You have a high-profile athlete, revered in both countries - Canada and in the U.S. - the day before his sister's wedding."

For universities and colleges across the Maritimes, it's a timely message, too.

"Certainly, alcohol-related deaths is at the top of our concerns list when we're dealing with young people,” said Judy Kelley, director of health and counselling at Cape Breton University.

  • The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

With students back for a new school year, and an opening week that often comes with partying, Kelley said a tragedy involving a professional athlete who, at 31, was not much older than students themselves is an example they can relate to.

"One of the, I guess, benefits of youth - or follies of youth - is kind of that invincible feeling,” Kelly said. “That, ‘This will never happen to me,' or whatnot. So, definitely to have it happen to someone as well-known and popular as there.. definitely, yeah, I think it will drive it home."

Matheson noted the tragedy also proves impaired driving can make a victim out of pretty much anyone, including the rich and famous.

"It doesn't matter what your background is and what it is you do for a living, it can happen,” Matheson said. “If people are making poor choices, tragic results can occur."

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Nowra man to face trial over the deaths of two men he allegedly drove over after drinking

By Romy Gilbert

ABC Illawarra

Topic: Courts and Trials

Man with sunglasses in black top

Nowra man Nathan Bernhard has pleaded not guilty to five driving charges relating to the death of two men in May last year. ( ABC Illawarra: Romy Gilbert )

A South Coast NSW man will face trial in the District Court next year after pleading not guilty to driving offences leading to the death of two men. 

Nathan Bernhard, 27, is accused of driving over and killing Bobby Kelsall, 36, and Stephen Lippis, 41, on May 31, 2023.

What's next?

A trial in the District Court is expected to commence next year. 

A New South Wales South Coast man accused of driving over and killing two men after drinking has pleaded not guilty to five charges in Nowra Local Court.

Nathan Bernhard, 27, was charged with two counts of dangerous driving occasioning death, two counts of negligent driving occasioning death and one count of mid-range drink-driving following the incident in May last year.

In Nowra Local Court on Friday, the case was committed for trial in the District Court which is expected to commence next year.

The court previously heard Mr Bernhard, Bobby Kelsall, 36, and Stephen Lippis, 41, had allegedly consumed alcohol together at a home in North Nowra on the afternoon of Wednesday, May 31, 2023.

two men walking

Nathan Bernhard and his brother leave Nowra Local Court. ( ABC Illawarra: Romy Gilbert )

The Crown previously alleged Mr Bernhard attempted to complete a three-point turn in his ute, during which he drove over the two men who were lying on the road.

The men were treated by paramedics at the scene, but they died from their injuries.

At the time of Mr Bernhard's arrest last year, the prosecution objected to a request for bail due to his previous drink-driving record.

The court also heard then that Mr Bernhard had served two intensive correction orders for drug offences.

The accused was comforted in the court room on Friday by his partner and brother. 

Home — Essay Samples — Nursing & Health — Underage Drinking — Drinking And Driving: Persuasive Paper

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dangers of drunk driving essay

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COMMENTS

  1. The Issue of Drunk Driving: [Essay Example], 752 words

    This essay discusses the scope, causes, consequences, interventions, and solutions of drunk driving in the United States. It provides statistics, references, and a conclusion to support the argument that more measures are needed to prevent drunk driving incidents.

  2. 500-word on The Dangers of Drinking and Driving

    To discuss the dangers of drinking and driving, this essay starts with the various negative and devastating effects. Drunk driving is one of the main causes of accidents. A driver under alcohol influence is more likely to cause a road accident compared to a sober driver. Many deaths occur worldwide due to drinking and driving accidents.

  3. The Dangers and Consequences of Drinking and Driving

    This essay explores the dangers, consequences, and solutions of drunk driving, using statistical data, personal anecdotes, and expert opinions. It argues that stricter laws, educational campaigns, and alternative transportation options are necessary to combat this ongoing problem and ensure road safety.

  4. Drunk Driving and Its Consequences

    Consequences of drunk-driving. When driving under the influence of alcohol, the driver ignores traffic signs, symbols, and lights; with the ignorance there is high chance that he will do the forbidden causing an accident. In the United States, for instance, the leading cause of deaths for people under the age of 24 years is motor vehicle wrecks ...

  5. Drinking and Driving: The Negative Effects Essay

    One of the main effects of drinking and driving is the increase in physiological changes in the human body. When a person uses alcohol, the communication between the brain and the eyes slows down, provoking double vision. The examples include the inability to identify a real object, make the required stop, and determine an actual threat on the ...

  6. 86 Drunk Driving Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

    On the Issue of Drunk Driving. The concentration of alcohol in a driver's blood is directly proportional to the driver's ability to judge distances as well react appropriately to sudden happenings in the road. We will write a custom essay specifically for you by our professional experts. 182 writers online. Learn More.

  7. Essay on Dangers Of Drinking And Driving

    100 Words Essay on Dangers Of Drinking And Driving Introduction. Drinking and driving is a dangerous act. It refers to operating a vehicle while your ability to do so is impaired by alcohol. This behaviour is risky and unlawful. It can lead to severe consequences, including accidents, injuries, and loss of life.

  8. Drunk Driving Essay: Effects, Dangers, and Prevention of Drinking and

    This essay discusses the issue of driving under the influence of alcohol and its consequences for road safety and society. It also proposes solutions such as public awareness campaigns, clear laws and penalties, and high enforcement to reduce drunk driving.

  9. 111 Drunk Driving Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

    To help you get started, here are 111 drunk driving essay topic ideas and examples: The impact of drunk driving on society. The legal consequences of drunk driving. The emotional toll of losing a loved one to a drunk driver. The effectiveness of DUI checkpoints.

  10. Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol: Findings from the NSDUH, 2002

    In 2016-2017, 12.1% of respondents aged 26-34 drove under the influence of alcohol, significantly higher than the rates among those aged 18-25 (10.7%). Second, Whites continued to be the racial/ethnic group with the highest prevalence of DUI of alcohol with more than one in every ten adults involved in drunk driving.

  11. Drunk Driving Essay Examples for Free • GradesFixer

    An essay on drunk driving enables us to raise awareness about the dangers associated with impaired driving and the importance of responsible behavior. It provides an opportunity to discuss the legal, social, and ethical aspects surrounding this issue, including laws, regulations, and public attitudes.

  12. Danger of Drunk Driving

    Danger of Drunk Driving. "In 2016, 10,497 people died in the United States involving an alcohol-impaired driver, accounting for all traffic-related deaths," (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). Drunk driving, a tragic occurrence in today's society, has greatly affected many lives. The damage caused by an alcohol-impaired ...

  13. Free Drunk Driving Essays

    Find essay samples on various topics related to drunk driving, such as causes, consequences, laws, and solutions. Read examples of different types of essays, from argumentative to descriptive, and get inspired for your own writing.

  14. Danger Of Drinking And Driving Essay

    Effect Essay on: Drunk Driving Driving a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol is one of the most dangerous things you can do. There is a mass of research evidence to show that driving performance and reaction times are seriously affected by alcohol.

  15. Drinking And-Driving-The-Consequences-Of-Drunk (Essay Example)

    Drinking and driving is a dangerous combination that can have devastating consequences. When individuals choose to get behind the wheel of a vehicle after consuming alcohol, they not only put their…

  16. On the Issue of Drunk Driving

    Introduction. Driving while drunk is collectively known as impaired driving where one drives when under alcohol or any other drug influence. In some countries such as Canada, drinking and driving is an offence and one could be jailed for although cancelling of driving licenses and fines are the most used punishments for such offences. Get a ...

  17. Driving Under The Influence Essay

    There are countless facts and data on the dangers of drinking and driving and the consequences it has had and is continuing to have on society. An article written by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, says each year, approximately 5,000 young people under the age of twenty-one die as a result of underage drinking.

  18. Drunk Driving Essay

    It is the act of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or other drugs whereby the mental and motor driving skills are impaired. This is also called driving while intoxicated or DWI and is illegal in all jurisdictions. The laws pertaining to this may also be applicable to boating or piloting aircraft. Drunk driving is indeed a dangerous ...

  19. Effects Of Drinking And Driving: [Essay Example], 559 words

    Conclusion. In conclusion, the effects of drinking and driving have far-reaching consequences that impact individuals, families, and society as a whole. It is crucial for individuals to understand the dangers of this behavior and take steps to prevent tragedies from occurring. By working together to raise awareness, enforce laws, and support ...

  20. Drunk Driving Essays: Examples, Topics, & Outlines

    Drunk Driving Trends and Effects Drunk driving and driving under the influence in general is a major problem in the United States. The problem is a common cause of traffic accidents and traffic fatalities and demonstrates a pervasive legal and social issue that has yet to be adequately solved and may even be increasing in occurrence as the population spreads into larger and larger areas.

  21. Essay Example Discussing The Dangers Of Drunk Driving

    Drunk driving is incredibly dangerous. It can often lead to accidents and cases of road rage. Road rage constitutes angry or aggressive behavior displayed by the driver of a vehicle. This can include driving in an unsafe manner, driving in a threatening manner, rude gestures, or even verbal insults. Road rage is particularly unsafe not just ...

  22. PHS students learn the dangers of drunk driving with simulation

    (WTAP)—The Parkersburg High School driver education class conducted a drunk-driving simulation to encourage road safety among students. The students drove in a golf cart with drunk goggles on to simulate the impact that being drunk or impaired can have on your attention span, attention to detail, and reaction time.

  23. Persuasive Speech On Drunk Driving: [Essay Example], 594 words

    This essay provides a persuasive argument against drunk driving, citing statistics, stories, and preventative measures. It aims to convince the audience that drunk driving is not only reckless and irresponsible but also completely preventable.

  24. Gaudreau brothers' deaths highlights dangers of impaired driving

    The deaths of Calgary Flames player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew - which happened after an alleged drunk driver hit them while they were cycling on a New Jersey country road - is a ...

  25. Man accused of running over and killing two men while drink-driving to

    Nathan Bernhard pleaded not guilty to dangerous and negligent driving charges after he allegedly drove over two men he had been drinking with in May last year.

  26. Drinking and Driving: Persuasive Paper

    Drinking and driving is an issue that has plagued societies across the world for decades. It is a dangerous and irresponsible action that has severe consequences, both for the driver and for others on the road. Despite numerous campaigns, laws, and punishments designed to deter individuals from drinking and driving, the problem persists.