Supporting Sober Driving: NHTSA's timely reminder | PEMCO

During the holiday season it’s essential to remind ourselves of the importance of sober driving. From Dec. 12, 2025, to Jan. 1, 2026, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is once again launching its annual “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” initiative. This high-visibility enforcement program highlights the dangers of drunk driving and encourages everyone to make responsible choices before getting behind the wheel. 

We’re strong supporters and advocates of the NHTSA’s message and want to remind the PEMCO community and beyond: it’s never okay to drive under the influence of any substance. Prevention starts with planning, speaking up, and looking out for one another. 

The numbers are staggering 

Recent statistics show why prevention is critical: 

• 12,429 people died in alcohol-impaired crashes in 2023—that’s one person every 42 minutes according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.  
• In December of 2023 alone, 1,038 lives were lost in drunk-driving crashes according to the US Department of Transportation, Traffic Safety Marketing. 
• Early 2025 data shows an average of 37 deaths per day from alcohol-related crashes, a troubling rise compared to previous years. 
• Young drivers (ages 21–34) continue to be overrepresented in alcohol-related fatalities, and nighttime driving remains especially dangerous. 

These deaths are preventable. 

Understanding the costs 

Beyond the tragic loss of life, drunk driving carries enormous consequences: 

• A single DUI can cost up to $10,000 in fines, fees, and higher insurance rates. 
• Alcohol-impaired crashes drain $58 billion annually from the U.S. economy. 
• The personal toll includes jail time, license suspension, lost wages, and lasting emotional harm to families and communities. 

Prevention first: how to stay safe 

The goal is clear: preventing drunk driving saves lives. Here are practical steps to keep yourself and others safe: 

• Plan ahead: Arrange a designated driver, rideshare, or public transit before the event if you plan to drink alcohol. 
• Speak up: If you see someone about to drive impaired, intervene — your voice could save a life. 
• Know your limits: Remember that even small amounts of alcohol can impair judgment and reaction time. 
• Host responsibly: Provide non-alcoholic options and encourage guests to plan safe rides home. 
• Support enforcement: Increased patrols during the holidays are meant to protect communities—respect them. 

A community commitment 

Drunk driving deaths have declined slightly in recent years, but the numbers remain far too high. With law enforcement stepping up during the 2025/2026 Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, we all have a role to play. 

By planning ahead, making smart choices, and encouraging others to do the same, we can ensure that holiday celebrations end with joy—not tragedy.