Drunk driving on Blackout Wednesday

The Thanksgiving Danger No One Is Talking About: Drunk Driving on Blackout Wednesday

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food and fun, but it also comes with some serious risks, especially when it comes to driving. With millions of people on the road and many of us attending parties or family gatherings, the likelihood of impaired driving increases dramatically. One of the most dangerous times? The night before Thanksgiving, also known as 'Blackout Wednesday', when bars and parties are packed and alcohol consumption peaks.

Unfortunately, it's a trend that leads to far too many avoidable accidents and lives lost.

We reached out to Bob Nulman, a passionate advocate for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and a father who knows firsthand the heartache of losing a loved one to drunk driving. Bob Nulman's 22-year-old son, Dan, was killed in a tragic head-on collision with an impaired driver in 1987, inspiring Bob, the former mayor of Clinton, New Jersey, to join the fight against driving under the influence. He has been a volunteer with MADD for more than 19 years, providing support to victims and survivors through the National Victim Helpline.

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Bob shares his personal story and offers practical tips for parents on how to avoid driving problems this holiday season, whether you're hosting a get-together or helping your teen navigate the challenges of safe driving. By taking proactive steps and having important conversations, we can ensure Thanksgiving is a time of joy, not tragedy.

Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel times of the year. Can you explain? why the risk of driving problems is particularly high during the holidays, especially on “Blackout Wednesday?”

Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel times of the year, and with millions of Americans on the road to join family and friends, the risk of impaired driving increases significantly. The night before Thanksgiving, often called “Blackout Wednesday,” has become a popular occasion for socializing at bars and gatherings, leading to a significant increase in alcohol consumption. Unfortunately, this tradition has created a dangerous trend with more impaired drivers on the road during the holidays. And unfortunately, a close friend's 17-year-old daughter was murdered on Thanksgiving evening.

According to the latest data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 35% of fatal car crashes on Thanksgiving Eve involved drunk drivers in 2022, reflecting the increased risks this time of year. Over the Thanksgiving holiday, NHTSA reported a total of 184 fatal traffic crashes involving drivers with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or higher, underscoring the importance of making responsible choices.

As families plan their Thanksgiving festivities, Mothers Against Drunk Driving® (MADD) encourages everyone to consider the risks associated with drunk driving and arrange a safe ride home before the festivities begin.

For parents who may be hosting gatherings or traveling this holiday season, what are some proactive steps they can take to reduce the risk of disability driving among their relatives and guests?

MADD encourages Thanksgiving hosts to take an active role in ensuring the safety of their family members and guests by taking a few proactive steps. First, hosts can help prevent driving problems by offering guests a place to stay or arranging alternative transportation, such as a ride or a designated driver if they have been drinking. Ensuring that guests get home safely can significantly reduce the risk of traffic accidents during this busy holiday season.

For parents with teenage or young adult family members, having open conversations about the dangers of drunk driving and encouraging safe behavior can also make a big difference. By creating a safe environment, making responsible choices and emphasizing that impaired driving is no longer possible, hosts and parents can help make this Thanksgiving a safe and joyful holiday for everyone.

How do you recommend families approach the topic of drunk driving? teens who may be at greater risk for making unsafe decisions around alcohol or medications?

With Thanksgiving approaching, parents have a crucial opportunity to engage their teens in life-saving conversations about the dangers and consequences of underage drinking and impaired driving. During this holiday break, teens often have extra free time, which can bring both opportunities and risks. Students returning home are eager to reconnect with friends they haven't seen in a while, increasing the likelihood of gatherings where alcohol may be present.

Just two years ago, my grandson called his parents to say he was at a party and felt he was too disabled to drive home. He asked if he should get a room for the night or if they could pick him up. They picked him up and he arrived home safely. I was so happy that he listened to our message and honored the memory of his late uncle.

By openly participating in these conversations, especially around the holidays, parents reinforce the message that drunk driving is not only dangerous, but also preventable. When teens feel supported and prepared, they are more likely to make decisions that protect themselves and others.

What should parents do if they suspect someone is driving under the road? influence? How can they help prevent potential accidents or damage? escalate the situation?

If you suspect someone is about to drive under the influence, remain calm and offer alternatives, such as arranging a ride, calling a taxi, suggesting they stay overnight, or finding a sober driver to take them home. If they are reluctant to accept these options, engage others to emphasize the importance of making a safe choice. When all other options have been exhausted, consider notifying the local police. It may seem difficult to involve authorities and risk facing consequences, but it is far better than the risk of a devastating outcome. Taking action can prevent serious damage, as poor driving endangers not only the driver but everyone on the road. Friends don't let friends drive drunk!

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What do you think can be done to change the culture around drinking? driving a car, especially among young people during the holidays?

Changing the culture around drunk driving, especially among young people during the holidays, starts with education and open, proactive conversations. Parents, educators, community leaders and peers all play a vital role in helping teens understand the very real consequences of poor driving.

Communities can further support a shift away from impaired driving by encouraging designated drivers, ride sharing and other safe transportation options, especially during high-risk times like the holidays. Encouraging young people to look out for each other and speak up when they see someone with a disability trying to drive creates a safety-oriented culture of shared responsibility.

When we normalize speaking out and intervening, we build a culture where safety is valued and reinforced throughout the community.

MADD's Parent Power Handbook helps parents talk to their teens about the dangers of bad driving, which leads to less risky behavior. It offers simple strategies to tackle peer pressure, plan safe transportation, and encourage responsible choices.