Thousands of individuals are arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol in Texas each year. These incidents have led to hundreds of deaths and millions of dollars in property damage. As a result, governments and other agencies are trying to find any connections that may reduce this behavior. There may be a connection between chronic users of multiple substances and impaired driving. Identifying this connection could end up in drivers and regulators being more careful.
Statistics
A recent study suggests that there is a connection between using both alcohol and drugs and driving under the influence. Forty percent of all drivers who have used alcohol and cannabis in the past year also report driving under the influence. This percentage is higher than that of the general public and of those who only drink or use cannabis. Research suggests that these drivers are a unique population that needs to be targeted to substantially reduce incidents of driving under the influence.
Meaning
This DUI statistic is harrowing for the millions of Americans who drink alcohol and smoke cannabis. Fortunately, there are several steps that anyone with these habits can take to avoid unsafe driving and breaking the law. Drinkers and cannabis users can ensure they are never tempted to drive under the influence.
They might make sure to order a taxi whenever they go out with friends or designate a driver who is not drinking. Some people who are particularly worried about driving while drunk may hook up an ignition lock device to their cars. These cars force drivers to test under a certain blood alcohol level before the car will start. They can be a technological secret to reducing the chances of a drunk driver getting behind the wheel.