What drunk driving statistics should you understand?

Drunk driving regularly contributes to fatal car accidents in Illinois and across the U.S. Understanding the statistics behind drunk driving illustrates exactly why so many prosecutors swiftly file DUI charges.

Fatal drunk driving accidents

One of the worst parts about drunk driving accidents involves the high rate of fatality. Consider these fatal DUI statistics:

• A fatal DUI accident happens every 52 minutes.
• More than 10,000 fatal DUI accidents occur each year.
• More than 200 children die annually from DUI crashes.
• Approximately 68% of fatal DUI crashes occur at night.
• More than 26% of drivers killed in car accidents drank before getting behind the wheel.

Drunk driving fatalities by state

In the state of Illinois, more than 3,000 people died in drunk driving accidents between 2009-2018. These states made up the highest numbers of drunk driving deaths during the same period:

• Texas with 13,592
• California with 9,288
• Florida with 7,573

Most dangerous holidays and seasons for DUIs

During the holidays, the amount of alcohol you consume typically increases. This results in an increase of fatal DUI crashes. The most dangerous holidays for DUI fatalities include:

• New Year’s Day
• Independence Day
• Thanksgiving
• Labor Day
• Memorial Day

Teenagers and fatal DUIs

Some demographics may present greater levels of risk for fatal DUIs than others. Remember these important facts about teenagers in fatal DUI crashes:

• Teenagers increase their risk of fatal DUI crashes with lower blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels than adults.
• Approximately 5% of teenagers admit to driving while under the influence of alcohol.
• Teenagers make up 15% of fatal DUI crashes.

Severity of DUI charges

While DUI charges used to be rather inconsequential, changes to the law mean you can spend years in prison, lose your license and pay hefty fines if convicted of a DUI. If someone dies because of your drunk driving, you face more than 20 years in prison.

Don’t put yourself or others in danger. Stay safe and avoid drinking and driving.