America’s Deadliest ‘Alco-Holiday’.

Drunk driving is an epidemic. And the worst outbreak ­ by far ­ is New Year’s Eve/Day, the deadliest drunk driving weekend of the year, when an estimated 65% of all traffic deaths are alcohol related. A recent poll conducted by online automotive company Autobytel (as part of its “Take the Pledge to Slow Down” safe driving campaign) suggests that drunk driving-related crashes and DUI infractions may merely represent the tip of the iceberg in a nation that drives everywhere including to and from the bar.

Fifty-six percent of those polled by Autobytel admitted that they’ve driven after having too much to drink, while 62% report that they‹or someone they know‹has received a ticket/citation for drunk driving. An alarming 52% said they personally know someone who was either injured or killed by a drunk driver, while an additional 9% know someone who was involved in an accident caused by a drunk driver without sustaining injury.

Education/awareness may be part of the problem, with 66% of respondents unaware of the exact penalties for first-time drunk driving violations in their states, and 28% unaware of what the legal blood alcohol content limit is. Despite this lack of awareness ­ and the widespread participation in drunk driving among survey-takers ­ most advocate stiffer drunk driving fines/penalties: 64% of respondents said that current penalties are generally too lenient with only 9% arguing that they’re too severe.

With millions of website visitors each month, Autobytel offers a unique perspective on nationwide driving and auto consumer trends. The company’s “Take the Pledge to Slow Down” campaign encourages drivers to make a personal, signed commitment to drive responsibly. To “Take the Pledge to Slow Down” online (in preparation for New Year¹s Eve), log onto Autobytel.com and click on the “Take the Pledge” button.