December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month: Understanding Impairment – Alcohol, Drugs, and Beyond

December 17, 2024

December marks National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence of substances that impair judgment, reaction time, and overall driving ability. Whether it’s alcohol, prescription medications, or recreational drugs, impairment comes in many forms, and understanding its effects is critical to keeping our roads safe.

Alcohol and Impaired Driving

Alcohol remains one of the leading causes of impaired driving. Even small amounts can affect coordination, slow reaction times, and impair decision-making. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%, but impairment can begin well below that level, especially for individuals who are tired, taking other medications, or have a low tolerance.

Prescription Medications

Many prescription medications, even those taken as directed, can impair driving ability. Painkillers, muscle relaxants, sedatives, and medications for anxiety or depression often list “drowsiness” or “do not operate machinery” as a side effect. Combining medications or mixing them with alcohol can exacerbate their effects and create dangerous situations behind the wheel.

If you’re unsure how a medication affects you, speak to your healthcare provider or pharmacist, and always read warning labels before driving.

Marijuana and Other Newly Legalized Substances

The growing acceptance and legalization of marijuana have led to an increase in driving under its influence. While marijuana may be legal for medical or recreational use in certain areas, its effects on driving are significant. Marijuana can impair motor coordination, slow reaction times, and reduce concentration, all of which are critical for safe driving.

Similarly, other newly legalized substances or recreational drugs can impact the central nervous system, leading to unpredictable effects. Many people mistakenly believe they can safely drive after consuming these substances, but impairment is impairment—regardless of legality.

What You Can Do to Prevent Impaired Driving

  1. Plan Ahead: If you’re attending a gathering where alcohol or recreational substances are available, plan for a designated driver, use rideshare services, or stay overnight.
  2. Know Your Medications: Be aware of how your prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs affect your ability to drive. If you have questions about your medication talk to your pharmacist or health care provider.
  3. Educate Others: Talk to friends and family about the dangers of impaired driving, including the risks associated with marijuana and prescription drug use.
  4. Speak Up: Don’t let someone drive if you suspect they are impaired. Offer alternatives to keep them—and everyone else on the road—safe.

This December, let’s commit to preventing impaired driving and keeping our roads safe for everyone. Understanding the effects of alcohol, prescription medications, and recreational drugs is the first step in making responsible choices.

Stay safe. Drive sober. Your decisions can save lives.

Sources:

  1. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – nhtsa.gov
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – cdc.gov
  3. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – samhsa.gov
  4. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) – drugabuse.gov