National Impaired Driving Prevention Month: What Every Driver Should Know This December

​December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month.

Learn the latest statistics, the real risks of impaired driving, and how to keep your family safe this holiday season. Brought to you by Corin Insurance Group.

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December is one of the busiest travel months of the year — and one of the most dangerous. With holiday parties, family gatherings, and winter travel increasing across the U.S., impaired driving incidents rise sharply in December. That’s why each year, the U.S. recognizes National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, a campaign dedicated to reducing alcohol- and drug-related crashes.
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At Corin Insurance Group, we want to help protect our community by sharing the facts, risks, and safety measures every driver should know.

The Real Impact of Impaired Driving: Key 2024–2025 StatisticsAlcohol-related crashes continue to be a major concernAccording to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

• Every day, about 37 people in the U.S. die in drunk-driving crashes (that’s one every 39 minutes).
• In 2023, over 13,000 people were killed in alcohol-impaired driving crashes — a 14% increase from five years prior.
• Nearly 1 in 3 traffic deaths involve a driver with a BAC of 0.08 or higher.

Impaired driving isn’t just alcohol anymoreThe CDC reports:

• About 20% of drivers tested positive for at least one drug in fatal crashes.
• Cannabis and prescription medications play an increasing role in impairment.
• Many drivers underestimate the impact of mixing over-the-counter medications with alcohol.

Holiday season creates a spike in incidentsThe Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) notes:

• December sees a significant increase in impaired driving, especially between Christmas and New Year's.
• Weekend nighttime driving is when most impaired crashes occur.
• About 40% of highway deaths during the holidays involve alcohol.

What Counts as Impaired Driving?Impairment doesn’t only come from alcohol. Drivers may be impaired by:

• Illegal drugs
• Prescription medications (especially painkillers or sleep aids)
• Over-the-counter cold/flu medicines
• Marijuana
• Mixing substances, even small amounts
• Fatigue — which can mimic impairment

Even a small amount of impairment can delay reaction time and reduce judgment, especially in winter driving conditions.

Why December Is the Perfect Time for AwarenessWith more cars on the road and more celebrations happening, December brings:

• Increased alcohol use
• More hosting/partying
• More late-night driving
• More long-distance travel
• Reduced visibility and riskier weather conditions

Impaired drivers don’t just risk their own lives — they put every road user at risk, including families driving to and from gatherings.

How to Stay Safe (and Keep Others Safe)Here are practical ways to prevent impaired driving this holiday season:
1. Plan ahead before holiday gatheringsAssign a designated driver or plan to use Uber, Lyft, taxis, or local ride-share programs.
2. Watch out for friends and loved onesIf someone has been drinking or using substances, take their keys. It could save their life.
3. Know your medicationsAlways check warning labels on prescription or over-the-counter medicines, especially during cold and flu season.
4. Avoid mixing alcohol with medicationsEven small amounts can create severe impairment.
5. Drive defensivelyDuring December, be extra cautious:

• Increase following distance
• Avoid late-night driving if possible
• Watch for swerving or erratic vehicles

6. Use technology responsiblySafe-ride apps, ride-share gift cards, and car-safety features (like lane departure warnings) all help reduce risk.

How Impairment Can Affect Your InsuranceFrom an insurance perspective, impaired driving has serious consequences. A DUI/DWI can result in:

• Major rate increases or policy non-renewal
• SR-22 requirements
• Loss of preferred coverage options
• Long-term financial impact lasting 3–10 years depending on the state

Driving sober protects not only your life — but also your financial stability.

A Message From Corin Insurance GroupAt Corin Insurance Group, we care about the safety of every driver in our community. As we move through the holiday season, we encourage everyone to make responsible choices, plan ahead, and help spread awareness about impaired driving.
Small decisions can save lives.
And together, we can make our roads safer this December — and all year long.

Need to Review Your Auto Coverage Before Holiday Travel?Our team is here to help you make sure you’re properly protected on the road.
We compare multiple carriers to find coverage that fits your needs, your budget, and your family.
🌐 Visit: www.corininsurance.com
📧 Email: [email protected]

Disclaimer:This blog is for educational purposes only. Coverage varies by carrier and policy. For guidance tailored to your situation, consult a licensed agent at Corin Insurance Group.