You know what time it is, parents. You’re likely out purchasing back-to-school supplies and ironing out bus schedules. But it’s also time to have that annual talk with your teen: drinking and driving is illegal. It’s not rocket science, but getting your teenager to understand the consequences can be pretty difficult. But time is of the essence: for the next several weeks, law enforcement agencies across the country will be on high alert for intoxicated drivers.
The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign begins Aug. 15 and ends on Labor Day, Sept. 3. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Labor Day is one of the deadliest holidays of the year, due to an increase of drunk drivers on the road. That is why, during this time, NHTSA and local law enforcement agencies have teamed up to raise awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence and to increase enforcement efforts with a zero-tolerance policy.
Be Part of the Team: Educate Your Teen About Driving Under the Influence
Nothing is scarier than the thought of your teen out on the open road. One of the biggest fears parents of teen drivers have is getting the call that their child has been in an accident. Add worries about alcohol into the mix and it’s no wonder parents are kept up at night, pacing as curfew approaches. By educating your teen, you can set at least some of your worry aside and reduce the risk of their involvement in a drunk driving related accident. The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign presents the perfect opportunity to talk to your teen about the dangers and costs of driving under the influence.
3 Alarming Facts to Share With Your Teen Driver
There are severe, long-lasting consequences of driving while intoxicated.
- Driving under the influence continues to kill thousands. Nearly 10,500 people were killed in drunk driving crashes in 2016.
- ANY amount of alcohol impairs driving ability. Even a blood alcohol content of .02 can impair your judgement and reduce visual functions and the ability to do two things at once.
- Legal fees and fines associated with DUIs can reach up to $10,000.
Reduce the Risk by Having a Plan
The good news is that drunk driving fatalities are preventable and teenage drinking and driving is in decline. However, it is still a prevalent problem with 1 in 10 high school teens drinking and driving. Having a plan in place can help your teen stay safe.
Even the most responsible teen can get into situations they didn’t intend. Be sure to talk to your teen driver about what to do if they have been drinking, if a friend of theirs has been drinking, or if they spot a driver on the road that appears to be driving under the influence.