(Monthly) National Drunk & Drugged Driving Prevention Month

Celebrated on 12/01/2026

Quick Fact

December is National Drunk & Drugged Driving Prevention Month, a time to highlight the dangers of impaired driving. Did you know that in the United States, about 28 people die every day in crashes involving an alcohol-impaired driver—that's one death every 52 minutes?

Origins and Establishment of (Monthly) National Drunk & Drugged Driving Prevention Month

National Drunk & Drugged Driving Prevention Month, also known as National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, was established by presidential proclamation in the United States. The first proclamation was issued by President Ronald Reagan in December 1981, aiming to raise awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The initiative was supported by organizations like Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), founded in 1980, which advocated for stricter laws and public education.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over the years, the observance has expanded to include drug-impaired driving, reflecting the growing concern over prescription and illicit drug use. In 2012, President Barack Obama officially renamed it National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. Today, it is commemorated through public awareness campaigns, educational programs in schools, increased law enforcement efforts like sobriety checkpoints, and partnerships with organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Social media campaigns and events encourage people to plan ahead and designate a sober driver.

Facts & General Observations

• In 2022, 13,524 people died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes, accounting for 31% of all traffic fatalities in the United States.
• Marijuana use is increasing among drivers; in 2020, 11.7% of weekend nighttime drivers tested positive for THC.
• The economic cost of alcohol-related crashes in the U.S. exceeds $44 billion annually in medical expenses, lost productivity, and legal costs.

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