DUIs and Alcohol Addiction
Driving under the influence (DUI) refers to operating a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol. Contrary to popular belief, this doesn’t just apply to cars and trucks—it includes motorcycles, bikes, boats, and more.
While drinking and driving is a dangerous and irresponsible behavior, there is evidence suggesting that many people who drive under the influence also suffer from addiction issues. In recognition of National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month, we're here to shed some light on how addiction issues contribute to motor vehicle accidents.
Important Statistics
Driving under the influence is affecting the American public in the following ways:
- Roughly 28 people die each day from a drunk-driving accident.
- More than 10,000 people died as a result of drunk-driving crashes in 2019.
- In 2016, over 1 million drivers were arrested for driving under the influence.
- Over 111 million people self-report episodes of drunk driving annually.
Addiction and the Brain
When drinking excessively for prolonged periods of time, this can have an adverse effect on the brain. For people struggling with alcohol addiction, alcohol use causes the hippocampus to shrink. This region of the brain is responsible for learning, memory, and spatial navigation.
Alcohol addiction also impairs your decision-making skills. This is because having an alcohol use disorder (AUD) causes the compulsion to seek and use alcohol, even when it’s dangerous to do that. Unfortunately, this leads to drunk driving.
The Legal Implications of Drunk Driving
Because driving under the influence is a serious offense, it can have harsh consequences. Depending on the severity of the situation at hand, a DUI can result in the following:
- Misdemeanor or felony charges.
- Driver’s license revocation.
- Fines.
- Jail time.
Seeking Help at The Good Life Treatment Center
At The Good Life Treatment Center, we’re a different kind of treatment center—we believe in the treatment and recovery of the body, mind, and spirit. We’re committed to working with you to help remove the burdens of shame and guilt that addiction so often brings. We think there’s a better, freer way to live life.
To learn more about The Good Life Treatment Center, (561) 250-8552 today!