Drunk driving is dangerous, but some people still do it. According to the National Highway Transport Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2020, one person died in a drunk-driving crash every 45 minutes in the U.S. The total recorded number was 11,654 deaths in that year.
The following are five reasons people drink and drive despite being aware of its fatal consequences.
1. They have done it before
Some people who drink and drive have done it before and arrived at their destination without being caught. This gives them the confidence to believe they can do it again.
2. Impaired judgment
Drinking causes impaired judgment. Thus, it’s hard for someone drunk to judge how their physical and cognitive abilities have been affected, so they might believe they are in control and decide to drive.
3. Peer pressure
Holding one’s liquor gives people kudos among certain groups, so people may drink more than they should. They may feel more comfortable saying they are fine to drive than risking the wrath of their friends if they refuse to drive and make everyone walk home.
4. Financial reasons
People struggling financially may not have enough to pay for a taxi. Accordingly, they may force themselves to drive after drinking.
5. Fear of leaving their car
It can be worrying to leave a car in a place one doesn’t know well. Some people are also afraid of their vehicle being towed if they leave it in a bar parking lot overnight.
None of these excuses are valid. People who are going to drink should plan to ensure they do not endanger others. If a drunk driver injures you, get legal help to hold them responsible for the full amount of compensation you are due.