December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. The president named this month in 2010 in response to the increasing number of arrests for driving under the influence. Uniform crime reports available from the FBI indicate that authorities arrested 1.4 million people for driving under the influence in 2010 alone. The approaching holiday season means that there will be more drivers on the road traveling, attending celebrations and doing holiday shopping. Drivers can protect themselves by keeping their car insurance current, checking their coverage and following these tips:
*Even one drink is too many if you plan to drive. Drivers are significantly less alert after only one drink, which leads to greater risk of an accident.
*If you plan to drink, arrange for a designated driver.
*Do not get in a car with a driver who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
*Be aware that prescribed medications may impair your ability to drive.
*Educate your children about the dangers of impaired driving.
Car insurance is a critical part of protecting yourself against impaired drivers. Impaired drivers may have suspended licenses and may not carry insurance. Keeping your insurance up to date ensures that you will be covered in the event that you are involved in an accident. Check with your insurance company to determine to what extent your policy covers uninsured motorists, property damage and bodily injury. December is a busy month when a lot of people drive more than usual. Taking the right precautions, such as having the right car insurance coverage, is the first step in the fight against impaired driving.
Drivers can also stop impaired driving by reporting impaired drivers to the police. Too often drivers do not want to get involved or wait for someone else to report a drunk driver. You should notify law enforcement as soon as you see an impaired driver because law enforcement will get that person off of the road. The holidays and the roads are extremely busy in December and January. Protect yourself with the right car insurance and by avoiding situations where you or others drive while impaired.
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