Drunk driving is still a dangerous crime which people still participate in, even with so many options to avoid it.

According to the NYS laws, for a first offense of driving while intoxicated there is a mandatory fine between $550 and $1000 with no minimum jail time requirement, but a person’s lisense will get revoked for at least six months. 

The second offense is either five days in jail or 30 days of community service. If prior a DWI occurred within the past five years. 

The third offense would either be 10 days of jail time or 60 days of community service required if the two prior DWIs occurred within the past five years. 

Alcohol’s sedative affects a driver’s decision-making skills and coordination. An impaired driver lacks the ability to quickly and decisively avoid an accident or even perform routine driving maneuvers. Not being able to make a quick turn can lead to a car accident. Drunk driving is as prevalent as it is lethal. 

To stop drinking and driving, be prepared before you go out. If you want to go out and have fun, and you know that you will be drinking, choose a sober designated driver so that they can take you home safely. 

To protect yourself from drunk drivers, buckle your seatbelt.  Whether you’re in the passenger seat or in the back seats, you should always fasten your seat belt.  You should always maintain a general following distance by keeping your vehicle away from a car that is  swerving, slowing down and speeding repeatedly. You should turn off your cruise control if necessary. Call law enforcement and report any vehicle that seems suspicious.

Also use extra caution at intersections, making sure to take your time driving through intersections. Also make sure you look both ways before proceeding. Yield into oncoming traffic if needed. 

If you see someone that has their keys in their hand and going out to drive, and you know they have been drinking, safely take their keys from their hand. They may get mad at you for doing so, but it is better to be safe than sorry. 

For more information, visit www.MADD.org.