BRENTWOOD, Tenn., July 3, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- American Addiction
Centers uncovered some startling trends in a new study on drinking
and driving habits in the United
States. The survey was released as the nation prepares to
celebrate the Fourth of July, a time of the year when people are
historically known for overindulging in alcohol. In fact,
Alcohol.org found that 57% of people admit to binge drinking on
this holiday alone.
"One of the warning signs of addiction is engaging in risky
behaviors, such as drunk driving," said Dr. Lawrence Weinstein, American Addiction Centers'
chief medical officer.
"Unfortunately, this survey is a reminder that some people are
in denial about the severity of their drinking and the fact that
they could have a problem. We hope this survey will encourage
people to self-reflect and seek help if necessary."
The survey of 600 Americans found:
- 24% of men and 12% of women admitted to driving while blackout
drunk
- Nearly 50% of respondents admitted they were a passenger of a
drunk driver
- 10% of those who indicated they were fine to drink and drive
had received DUIs in the past
- Nearly 26% of respondents said rideshare apps didn't make them
less likely to drink and drive
- 14% of people believed they were fine to drive after 5-6 beers,
and 10% after 5-6 glasses of wine
To put some of the findings into perspective, AAC utilized a BAC
(Blood Alcohol Content) calculator to estimate the blood alcohol
level of a 200 pound male who consumed six 12-ounce beers within
four hours. The BAC calculated at 0.09%, which is above the legal
limit for driving, and determined it would take approximately six
hours to return to 0% BAC.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 29
people die every day in the United
States from vehicle crashes involving an alcohol-impaired
driver. The most recent data from the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration also shows that there were a total of 10,874
fatalities in motor vehicles involving drivers with BACs above the
legal limit in 2016. To view the number of fatalities by state,
visit
https://www.alcohol.org/guides/drunk-driving-accidents-by-state/
"If we can save even one life by encouraging someone to seek
help before something devastating happens, then we are making an
impact," said Weinstein. "While opioids often make the headlines,
we treat more patients for addiction to alcohol than any other
substance. The problem is just that significant."
American Addictions Centers offers a 24/7 helpline for the
public at 1-800-ALCOHOL. For more information, visit
americanaddictioncenters.org
About American Addiction Centers
American Addiction
Centers (NYSE: AAC) is a leading provider of inpatient and
outpatient substance abuse treatment services. We treat clients who
are struggling with drug addiction, alcohol addiction and
co-occurring mental/behavioral health issues. We currently operate
substance abuse treatment facilities located throughout
the United States. These
facilities are focused on delivering effective clinical care and
treatment solutions.
Contact:
Joy Sutton, 615-727-8407
jsutton@contactaac.com
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SOURCE American Addiction Centers