As we transition out of the holiday season, it is important to remain vigilant about roadway safety, including the continued threat from impaired drivers. Proactive measures can help workers stay safe on the job and in their personal lives.  

The National Safety Council designated December as National Impaired Driving Prevention Month in response to a notable surge in fatalities attributed to impaired driving during the Christmas and New Year holidays, resulting in an estimated 720 deaths. 

However, the threat of accidents does not disappear with the holidays. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics show that approximately 37 individuals lose their lives in alcohol-related car accidents daily in the United States, equating to a fatality every 39 minutes. Shockingly, in 2022, over 13,000 fatalities were recorded due to alcohol-impaired driving incidents and in 2021 there were 388,136 injuries due to drunk driving accidents. 

Motor vehicle accidents that happen while on the job create a significant financial, legal, and logistical burden on employers. But consider that an employee who is involved in an impaired driving accident outside of work can also have a significant effect on a company’s bottom line. Missed days at work and loss of a driver’s license could certainly disrupt workflow, not to mention the personal impact on the employee. 

Here are some tips to reduce exposure to the dangers of impaired driving. 

Review company policies and practices. Develop and enforce clear guidelines against impaired driving while on the job. Check motor vehicle records regularly and provide educational information and resources for alcohol and substance abuse awareness.

If drinking is anticipated, arrange for group transportation ahead of time or encourage designated drivers. Rideshare services offer convenient alternatives to driving under the influence, ensuring safe transportation without requiring a designated driver. AAA’s Tow to Go programs are may also be available to provide rides to impaired drivers.

Eating before drinking can help slow alcohol absorption, aiding in better decision-making and control over actions. For company functions, consider limiting the availability of alcohol, setting a drink limit, or having an early “last call” before activities conclude. 

Drinking alone can lead to excessive consumption and impaired judgment. Staying in a social environment encourages moderation and allows friends to look out for each other, helping to prevent dangerous situations. 

Plan for an overnight stay at a friend’s place or a nearby hotel to eliminate the need for driving.

When sharing a ride, individuals should be selective about the people they ride with and should only choose to travel in vehicles driven by sober individuals.

When driving sober, risks still abound on the roadway. In 2020, 38% of those injured in accidents with impaired drivers were either an occupant of a vehicle driven by an impaired driver or were occupants of another vehicle or a pedestrian. Avoiding distractions and using defensive driving skills helps drivers recognizing and reacting to danger. Avoid driving late at night or on weekends when impaired driving is at its peak. When encountering a suspected impaired driver on the road, keep a safe distance and call 911 to alert enforcement officers. Pulling off the road in a safe area to increase space between you and the unsafe driver may be the best choice. 

MEMIC policyholders have access to driver policies and training materials on the Safety Director, or speak with your safety consultant.  

Whether celebrating birthdays, achievements, promotions, or weekends, it is crucial to plan ahead if alcohol will be involved to ensure a safe journey home. By raising awareness, actively discussing the risks of impaired driving, and implement safe driving policies, we can collectively advocate for safer choices at home and at work, potentially saving lives and averting tragedies.

• Drunk Driving | Statistics and Resources | NHTSA
• Impaired Driving Facts | Impaired Driving | CDC
• OSHA Guidelines for Employers to Reduce Motor Vehicle Crashes
• NHTSA Economic Burden on Employers
• Drunk driving takes a toll on and off the job | 2018-07-31 | ISHN
  
  

• Distracted Driving Prevention - The Excellent Driver Dilemma with Greg LaRochelle
• On the Road to Safety: Why Driving Should Be on Your Company's Safety Radar
• Drive to Stay Alive