Driving Under the Influence: Warm Weather Precautions

With warmer weather comes graduation, prom, holiday weekends and more people on the roads. While this can be a celebratory time of the year, the extra traffic has increased risks, especially related to driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol. Let’s talk about the dangers of driving under the influence and how to prevent getting a DUI so you can stay mission ready.

Understanding Spring and Summer Driving Risks

During spring and summer, many gatherings can involve alcohol. Holidays like Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day are known for their festive spirit but they also see a spike in reported DUIs. Warmer weather and longer days can make people feel more relaxed about having a drink and driving, which is very dangerous.

DUI Prevention

Here are some tips to avoid driving under the influence:

• Plan ahead: If you’re going to a place where you’ll be drinking alcohol, plan how you’ll get home safely. This could mean arranging to have a designated driver, using public transportation or using a rideshare service.
• Know the law: Understand that the legal drinking age in the U.S. is 21, and driving after drinking is unsafe and risky at any age.
• Watch out for friends: If you see a friend trying to drive after drinking, make sure they don’t get behind the wheel and help them find a safe way home.
• Know the effects of alcohol on driving: Check out this Own Your Limits website here for more information on some of the common dangers associated with driving at different blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels.

Consequences of a DUI Citation

Did you know, the average cost of DUI is about $10,000? Not to mention your yearly annual insurance rates will increase significantly after receiving a DUI. Depending on your state, these rates vary. Then there’s the risk to your career. As a service member, there can be punishments under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) and service policies that could be inked permanently on your military service record. Think about these potential job risks before you make a decision you’ll regret:

• Loss of rank and pay.
• Loss of promotion potential.
• Loss of driving privileges on base.
• Extended duty.
• Confinement and/or discharge from the service.

Other consequences to consider:

• Legal consequences: These can include a suspended driver’s license, fines and possibly jail time.
• Future employment impact: Some jobs may be off-limits if you have a DUI on your record, especially those that involve driving.
• Personal impact: The guilt and stress of actually or potentially causing harm to yourself and/or others can affect your mental and emotional well-being.

By making smart choices and looking out for each other, we can enjoy the fun of spring and summer without the risks of driving under the influence. It’s not just about avoiding legal trouble; it’s about keeping everyone on the road safe and making sure you stay healthy and ready. For more on what a DUI can cost you, click here!