Stay Safe This New Year’s Eve: Tips For Avoiding Drunk Driving And Alcohol-Related Accidents in Utah

New Year’s Eve is possibly one of the most beloved holidays due to the fireworks and excitement for new things, but it's also one of the most dangerous.  

Even in Utah, drunk driving fatalities are a common occurrence, and just like the rest of the U.S. New Year’s Eve is a day of reckless driving and too much alcohol. A study from Callahan & Blane showed the deadliest days of driving and New Year’s Eve is at the top along with St. Patrick’s Day and July 4th.  

According to the study, 232 alcohol-related fatalities happened in 2021. Almost half of the fatal crashes that day were alcohol-related (43%).  

So, if you are going to drink this New Year’s please plan ahead to either have a sober driver or a place to stay once you do start to drink. It’s totally fine to want to have a fun night, especially on a holiday but endangering others is never worth it. Taking away someone else's loved one for a moment of impaired judgment sticks with you for life.  

There are a ton of ways to have a good time on New Year’s without partaking too like simply finding some cool fireworks, watching themed movies, or even the ball drop at midnight. If you think you’ll be tempted, make sure not to head out to any NYE parties and maybe just stay in with a good book and family.  

So, have a safe and fun New Year’s Eve, and make sure to be careful out on Utah roads.