Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White is reminding motorists that the best way to drive safely this holiday season is to avoid drinking and driving.
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“Drunken driving causes injury and death on our roads every year during the holidays,” said White. “Let’s keep the roads safe for our loved ones and others by driving sober.”
- In 2016, from Christmas Eve to Christmas Day, there were nine driving fatalities, two (22 percent) of which were alcohol-related, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT).
- In 2016, from New Year’s Eve to New Year’s Day, three of the seven fatalities (42 percent) were alcohol-related, according to IDOT.
- In Illinois, 76 percent of those arrested for DUI are men caught driving with a blood alcohol content of twice the legal limit, according to the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office.
- The rate of alcohol impairment among drivers involved in fatal crashes is four times higher at night than during the day, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
- An average of one alcohol-related fatality occurs every 53 minutes, according to NHTSA.
White suggests that those who will be participating in celebrations involving alcohol take public transportation, a cab, ride sharing or designate a sober driver. White also reminds drivers to use safety belts.
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