Text Pledge is a nonprofit group in Greater Grand Rapids, MI, that focuses on social issues. For this reason, we understand how affects people from all backgrounds. If you want to make a difference in your local community, take the pledge to end driving under the influence. Together, we can create safer roads for everyone.
Get the Facts
Through our work as a nonprofit organization, we know that driving under the influence is a serious issue with lasting consequences. Here are some of the most recent statistics from the (NHTSA) and the (CDC).
13,384NUMBER OF AMERICANS WHO DIED IN 2021 DUE TO DRUNK DRIVING ACCIDENTS (NHTSA)
31%PERCENTAGE OF TRAFFIC CRASH FATALITIES IN THE US THAT INVOLVE DRUNK DRIVERS (NHTSA)
37NUMBER OF AMERICANS WHO DIE EVERY DAY IN MOTOR VEHICLE CRASHES INVOLVING DRUNK DRIVERS (CDC)
$123.3 BillionANNUAL COST OF ALCOHOL-RELATED CRASHES IN THE UNITED STATES (CDC)
What is Driving Under the Influence?
Let’s get real. “Buzzed” driving is drunk driving. While the legal blood alcohol content for Michigan adults age 21 and older is under 0.08, any alcohol you consume affects your driving ability. Alcohol also affects your reaction times, which can make a big difference when you’re approaching an intersection sober versus drunk.
Alcohol isn’t the only substance that affects your driving ability. Marijuana and other drugs can impair drivers and increase their risk of getting into an accident. Even certain prescription medications can affect your ability to drive, which is why it’s important you always speak to your medical provider about any potential side effects.
What are the Consequences of a DUI?
As a teenager, it can be difficult to think about your future. However, being convicted of a DUI means you’ll have a permanent criminal record. Any conviction would have long-lasting implications for the rest of your life.
Consequences of driving under the influence may include:
- Time behind bars
- Expensive fines
- Loss of driving privileges
- Losing eligibility for certain colleges
- Losing eligibility for scholarships
- Difficulty finding housing
- Difficulty qualifying for loans
- Injuries
- Disability
- Death
By taking our pledge, you’re promising to never drive while you’re under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
Pledge to End Driving Under the Influence
Text Pledge is proud to serve as a nonprofit in Greater Grand Rapids, MI. While you’re here, we encourage both you and your loved ones to check out all 10 pledges. Learn about and take pledge 8 to help stop human trafficking. If you have any questions, please fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.
