Remember, buzzed driving is drunk driving

This July 4th, as we celebrate America’s independence, the Toole County DUI Task Force and the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) want to remind drivers that Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. Unfortunately, too many people think that driving after a few drinks is acceptable. The numbers say otherwise: In 2020, more than 200 people were killed in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes over the 4th of July holiday period. That’s over 200 people who could have made it home if everyone had planned ahead for a sober ride. 

If you celebrate Independence Day with alcohol and decide to get behind the wheel of a vehicle, you aren’t just putting yourself in danger; you put everyone on the road at risk. Plan ahead for a safe and sober ride every time you drink. Stay safe for the people in your life — loved ones, parents or children, your buddies. Drive sober to protect them and to protect yourself.

“Everyone deserves to have a safe, enjoyable Fourth of July,” said Task Force officials. “We’re partnering with NHTSA to share the reminder that Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. It is never okay to drink and drive — even after just a few drinks. There are so many options for a sober ride these days. So, plan ahead — if you’ll be drinking this Fourth of July, or any other day, arrange for a sober ride.” 

The 4th of July holiday period is consistently one of the deadliest times of year on the nation’s roads. From 2016 to 2020, there were 901 people killed in drunk-driving crashes over the 4th of July holiday period. Thirty-nine percent (542) of the drivers killed were alcohol-impaired (with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or higher), and more than half (51%) were between the ages of 21-34. During the 2020 July 4th holiday period, 60% of those who died in alcohol-impaired crashes were in a crash involving at least one driver or motorcycle operator with a BAC at or above .15. That’s almost twice the legal limit in most states.

Plan Ahead for a Sober Ride

This Fourth of July, the Toole County DUI Task Force and NHTSA urge drivers to designate a sober driver before heading out for the evening. If you plan on drinking, plan how you will get around without driving. If you wait until after you’ve been drinking to make this decision, you’re already too impaired to make the right choices. 

Remember these tips for a safe Independence Day weekend: 

Remember that it is never okay to drink and drive. Even if you’ve had only one alcoholic beverage, designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride service to get home safely. 

If you see a drunk driver on the road, contact the Toole County Sheriff’s Department.

See a friend who is about to drink and drive? Take the keys away and make arrangements to get your friend home safely.

This Fourth of July and every day, drive only if you’re 100% sober, because Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. For more information on impaired driving, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving.