Summer holidays, celebrations and get-togethers with good friends and family when large amounts of adults get together means alcohol is likely to be found and consumed, and the possibility of intoxication is high.
This also means more drivers are impaired by alcohol, too. Drinking on the holidays with subsequent driving is so common in fact, it has led to the term ‘Holiday Drinking and Driving’.
While it might seem like Christmas and New Years holidays would have the most drinking and driving problems, more DUIs are seen in the summer, especially surrounding the 4th of July.
Why? Because of the good weather, larger amounts of people can gather outdoors for picnics, festivals and celebrations where alcohol is available. When on vacation, drivers may be traveling an unfamiliar route or hauling a boat or camper, with the distraction of pets and children in the car. Adding alcohol to the mix puts the driver, passengers and other people on the road, at risk.
With all these fun summer activities mixed with alcohol, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) tells us people tend to get into more trouble and get more DUIs.
Stay Safe During Summer Holidays
Avoiding alcoholic beverages while driving a boat, driving a car, exploring the wilderness, and swimming is a good place to start. Other ways to stay safe on the road:
Have a designated driver
Drive without distractions
If you’re hosting a party or gathering, be sure to:
Offer a variety of nonalcoholic drinks
Provide healthy foods and snacks
Help your guests get home safely
If you are a parent, understand the underage drinking laws - and set a good example
If you do find yourself with a DUI, it’s important to know the DUI Evaluation process in Kane County. It starts with a DUI Evaluation followed by treatment. Care Addiction Center is a preferred DUI Evaluation & Treatment provider in Kane County. If you’re receiving treatment at a different agency and not happy, you can transfer.
Getting Help For Addiction
While addiction recovery can be challenging, it is achievable with the right resources and support. If you or somebody in your life seems to have an issue with alcohol or suffering from addiction, professional help may be the best option for recovery.
At Care Addiction Center, we offer treatment plans that address every facet of your addiction, serving individuals in Geneva, Batavia, Sycamore, St. Charles, and Kane County, with online addiction treatment available anywhere in Illinois.
To get started on the road to recovery, or if you have questions about helping yourself or a loved one, call us today or schedule a confidential assessment online and begin treatment.