Are You Ready for December’s National Impaired Driving Prevention Month?

Impaired driving is on an unfortunate rise in the U.S. Drunk driving fatalities specifically have increased for the past two consecutive years.

That’s why various organizations have designated December as National Impaired Driving Prevention Month to promote more awareness about stopping this dangerous behavior. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service’s Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) take this time of year to urge everyone to celebrate safely this holiday season. They are also urging local elected officials to look at what’s working, such as DWI Courts and supervising technology, to combat impaired driving.

Best Practices to Combat Impaired Driving

National Impaired Driving Month every year addresses the root problem for repeat offenders and high blood alcohol content drivers, which is addiction. They make sure that everyone should be aware of best practices in combating these unfortunate choices, especially elected officials who can improve DWI/DUI programs in their area. For example, the campaign’s members work to enhance DWI Courts, which have been proven to be a great success in the treatment for those who must attend them.

DWI Courts can save lives by promoting a long-term recovery plan from alcohol and drug addiction. There are currently 726 DWI Courts throughout the U.S. that help those who need to attend through treatment, close supervision and accountability. In fact, DWI Courts have reduced recidivism by 60 percent since its inception.

Methods to Reduce Impaired Driving Deaths

The National Center for DWI Courts (NCDC) and the Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility (FAAR) also promote best practices in reducing impaired driving deaths.

Several methods they recommend to courts include:

• Screen and assess all driving while intoxicated (DWI) offenders
• Expand and improve DWI Courts
• Increase evidence-based supervision technology

The third tactic includes Ignition Interlocks, which are car breathalyzers for some people convicted of a DUI. All-offender Ignition Interlock laws have been proven to reduce recidivism rates. There are currently 30 states and D.C who implement this type of Ignition Interlock law.

Ignition Interlocks can keep roads safe, but they must be more active in states and counties that have lax Ignition Interlock laws. Smart Start joins these organizations to promote National Impaired Driving Prevention Month in the hopes to raise awareness, and see a safer future on our roads.

Need an Ignition Interlock?

Smart Start can get you back on the road quickly. Call our Customer Care Center at (800) 831-3299 or fill out our online form.