This Thanksgiving, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is teaming up with the U.S. Department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to deliver lifesaving messages about the dangers of drunk driving during this busy travel season.
According to NHTSA, nationally in 2021, the last year of verifiable data, 190 people died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes during the Thanksgiving period. Additionally, in 2021, there were 13,384 fatalities in alcohol-impaired motor vehicle traffic crashes, accounting for 31% of all traffic fatalities in the United States.
In Connecticut in 2021, preliminary data shows 112 people were killed in alcohol-impaired crashes, which accounted for 38% of all fatalities in the state.
Drunk driving-related crashes rise during the Thanksgiving holiday season, beginning with what is commonly known as “Blackout Wednesday,” the day before Thanksgiving. The Thanksgiving holiday period is one of the busiest travel times of the year and the public is reminded that Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving.
“The Wednesday before Thanksgiving is a popular time for people to head out to bars or parties, getting together with friends and family who have traveled back home for the holiday. Unfortunately, these celebrations have created dangerous conditions for everyone on the roadway,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Driving impaired is deadly and illegal and no one should ever take that risk. Arrange for a sober ride with a designated driver, public transportation or ride share service. Plan ahead so everyone can make it home safe this Thanksgiving.”
For more information, visit nhtsa.gov.