NHTSA reminds drivers that buzzed driving is drunk driving

ATHENS — As communities nationwide prepare for Halloween celebrations, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reminds all drivers that Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.

Drivers must act responsibly and commit to sober driving to keep themselves, passengers, pedestrians, and other road users safe. In 2022, one person was killed every 39 minutes in a drunk-driving crash on our nation's roads.

Alcohol-impaired driving is deadly and continues to be a factor in fatal traffic crashes in the United States, including on Halloween night (6 p.m. October 31-5:59 a.m. November 1).

From 2018 to 2022, 192 people were killed in alcohol-related crashes, which involve at least one driver who has a blood alcohol level of .01 or higher, on the night of Halloween.

Drunk drivers, with BACs of .08 or higher, were involved in 171 of those traffic fatalities. People killed ages 21-34 (54%) were overrepresented in drunk-driving fatalities during that same fiveyear period. Victims in those drunk-driving crashes included 31 pedestrians and 138 drivers and passengers.

“A critical part of celebrating Halloween is planning to get to your destinations and back home safely. Those who are going out and intend to drink should make sure to have a designated sober driver or plan a sober ride home,” said Sheriff Smith. “We’re partnering with NHTSA to share the reminder that Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. If you feel any buzz, you should stay away from the driver's seat.”

Drivers should be safe during Halloween by planning ahead if they intend to drink. They shouldn’t wait until after drinking to plan how to get somewhere. Impairment clouds a person’s judgment. Drivers should secure a designated sober driver or call a taxi or rideshare for a sober ride home.

If a driver finds they are unable to drive, they should give their keys to a sober driver so that person can get them home safely. When a friend has been drinking and is considering driving, friends should be proactive — take away the keys and help them get a sober ride home. If anyone spots a drunk driver, contact local law enforcement.

Drive 100% sober, because Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.