There are public service announcements, ad campaigns and billboards everywhere that warn people about the dangers of drunk driving, so why do people still do it? According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, police officers arrest 26,000 people for alcohol-impaired driving in Colorado every year. That means thousands of people are consistently putting drivers like you at risk.
Drunk driving accidents account for one-third of traffic deaths in Colorado. Everyone knows it is dangerous behavior, yet so many people choose to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. Read below to find out some of the top reasons that people choose to drink and drive despite the potential consequences.
1. False confidence
Alcoholic beverages often make people feel confident, allowing them to think they have the capability to operate a vehicle. Alcohol seriously impairs decision-making skills and judgment. Drunk people may believe they are totally in control of their actions or thoughts.
2. Enjoyment of getting away with a crime
Many people drink and drive repeatedly. Some of these motorists may have done it before and believe it is fine because the police have not caught them yet. Other people get a thrill out of committing a crime or believing the police will not catch them.
3. Thinking there are no other options
When people are drunk, they are often not able to think clearly. They may believe they have no other way to get home. However, intoxicated individuals have many other choices besides driving drunk. They can designate a driver, call a cab, take the bus, use a rideshare app or stay the night somewhere. There is never a good excuse for driving drunk and putting others in danger.
Driving under the influence of alcohol is always dangerous. These are some reasons that people choose to do it, but none of them are acceptable. If you or someone you know suffers an injury in a DUI accident, make sure you get legal help.