Hi Friend,

As Memorial Day approaches and we mark the unofficial start of summer with family, friends, and loved ones, it's crucial to remember the importance of responsible behavior behind the wheel. The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is marked by an increase in drunk driving, and too many lives are lost on our nation's roadways every year because of it. Drunk driving is a choice that no one should make, and the crashes, injuries, and fatalities that are the result of these actions are 100% preventable.  

Time spent on the road increases during the summer months, making it critical to be vigilant, safe, and respectful of the laws, our own personal limits, and of the precious lives with whom we share the roads. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an estimated 13,524 people were killed in drunk driving crashes involving a driver with an illegal BAC (.08 or greater) in 2022, including 4,120 fatalities that occurred during the 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Join Responsibility.org this summer as we go on the road to end drunk driving. Safety starts with each of us, and eliminating drunk driving is a complex issue. As you prepare to celebrate Memorial Day, please keep a few things in mind before your relaxation and revelry begin:

Before heading out, download and use the Virtual Bar calculator to safely understand how alcohol will affect your BAC - plan to be safe and responsible before you take your first sip!

Not every drink contains the same amount of alcohol, so make sure you know how much you’re drinking. A standard drink—whether it’s a 12 oz beer, a cocktail containing 1.5 oz of spirits, or a 5 oz glass of wine—contains the same amount of alcohol.

If you’re heading out to a BBQ, pool party, or anywhere where alcohol is being served, plan for a safe ride home. Schedule a ride share in advance, appoint a designated driver, volunteer yourself to be the designated driver, or take public transportation. In addition to making plans for yourself, don’t let any impaired friends behind the wheel, either. 

Parents, emphasize the importance of safety to your teen drivers.  Always model responsible behaviors, and talk to them about safety, values, and expectations.

3,434 15- to 20-year-olds were killed on our nation’s roadways in 2022, including 1,276 (37%) that involved a driver with a BAC of .01 or higher, and 1,062 (31%) that involved a driver with a BAC of .08 or higher.   
 

And don't give underage drinking an excuse. Never supply alcohol to anyone under the legal drinking age. It’s illegal, unsafe, and irresponsible.

Have a safe holiday, enjoy the extended weekend, and most of all, remember to reflect on the selfless acts of our nation's heroes and to uphold the values they fought to defend. It's important for us to do our part by acting responsibly and honoring their legacy. 

From all of us to all of you, Happy Memorial Day! 

-The Responsibility.org team