Drink driving campaign launched by the U.S. Department of Transportation

Research shows one in five Americans have driven within two hours of drinking alcohol in the past year.

The annual 'Drunk Driving, Over the Limit. Under Arrest.' campaign has been launched by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Thousands of police agencies from across the nation will be involved in the law-enforcement crackdown, which is supported by $13 million in television and radio advertising from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Research by NHTSA has shown that eight per cent of all drivers have driven drunk at lease once during the past year.

THe survey also revealed that approximately one in five Americans have driven within two hours of drinking alcohol in the past year and that four out of five Americans identified drunk driving as a "major threat" to their own and their family’s safety.

The survey noted that those who reported that they drink and drive consumed alcohol more regularly than individuals who drink but choose not to drive afterwards. 28 percent or drivers consumed alcoholic beverages three or more days a week, compared to 10 percent of drivers who drink but do not drive afterwards.

Eight per cent of the population 16 and older rode in the past year with a driver they thought may have consumed too much alcohol to drive safely.

NHTSA Administrator David Strickland said, "Our message is loud and clear. If you drive drunk you will be arrested and prosecuted. There will be no exceptions and no excuses."

Further information:
Department of Transportation