Did You Know ?

• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates alcohol-related fatalities have decreased 29 percent from 1986 to 1996. Recent figures, however, indicate impaired driving is on the rise. The battle to reduce drinking and driving is far from over.
• In 1996, more than 17,000 people died in alcohol-related crashes, 321,000 were injured, and nearly 1.4 million were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics.

Celebrate Safely

• Celebrations are a part of our lives and sometimes those celebrations include alcohol. They should not, however, involve impaired driving.
• A great party features activity, good food and happy people, some of whom may drink alcohol. But make sure non-alcoholic beverages are available.
• When serving food, choose items high in protein, such as cheeses and pizza, because they help absorb alcohol. Offer a variety and serve it in waves.
• Be the kind of friend or co-worker who will take the keys if someone has had too much to drink. Let a designated driver or cab provide a ride home.
• Decide who is the designated driver before the party starts or before going out for the evening.

Is It Worth It ?

• A driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI) conviction can cost as much as $6,000 in attorney fees, increased insurance rates, towing fines, court costs and bonding fees, and result in a suspended license.
• In many states, a DWI/DUI conviction may remain part of a criminal record for life.
• Nine out of 10 insurance companies automatically cancel a driver convicted on a DWI/DUI violation. Consequently, the driver must find a high-risk insurance company, and rates may increase $1,000 a year or more.
• An employee will lose at least a half-day from work for court appearances for a first DWI/DUI offense and a whole day for a second offence.
• A person's driver's license can be suspended or revoked for a DWI/DUI conviction, depending upon the law in each state. A conviction in a state other than the residence does not guarantee the home state's licensing agency will not be informed and take action.
• A DWI/DUI conviction on a person's driving record may prevent them from getting a job, a promotion or even result in a job loss.

For more information on impaired driving, contact the Network of Employers for Traffic Safety (NETS) at 202/452-6005.