NCJ Number
232782
Date Published
December 2010
Length
4 pages
Annotation
After reviewing a new report that shows "drugged driving" to be a growing problem on the Nation's highways, the Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy presents a "Holiday Message" to enjoy festivities, but exercise special caution when driving; this is followed by the presentation of a map of States with drugged driving per se laws and advice on helping a loved one in recovery from addiction during the holidays.
Abstract
The first article reports that according to the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), 33 percent of all drivers with known drug-test results who were killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2009 tested positive for drugs (illegal substances as well as medications). Even as the total number of drivers killed in motor vehicle crashes declined 21 percent from 2005 to 2009, the involvement of drugs in fatal crashes during that same time period increased by 5 percent. Drug involvement, in this case, means only that drugs were found in the driver's system; it does not imply impairment or indicate that drugs were the cause of the crash. There is no measure of the drug amounts present. In his Holiday Message, the Director advises that if you are under the influence of alcohol or any other drug, including prescription medications, do not drive; and it you are hosting a holiday party or a family dinner, offer nonalcoholic beverages. The map presented shows the 15 States that have drugged driving per se laws as of December 2008. The concluding article presents practical advice for helping a loved one maintain recovery from addiction to alcohol or drugs during the holidays, when they may encounter pressure to drink or use drugs. This can be addressed through increased awareness of such pressures, a network of support, and a relapse prevention plan.