TEENS MISSING THE POINT OF “DESIGNATED DRIVER”

U.S teenagers recognize the importance of using a designated driver to get home.  The problem is, that person isn’t always sober.

According to a recent survey conducted by Liberty Mutual, about 1 in 5 teens say that it’s fine for their driver to have some alcohol or use drugs, as long as that person isn’t too impaired to drive.  “Teens seem to think that unless they’re really falling-down drunk, that it’s OK for them to drive,” said Dave Melton, managing director of global safety at Liberty Mutual.

More than 10,000 people were killed in collisions involving drunk drivers in 2012, accounting for 31% of all car-crash deaths that year.  Around 18% of fatal crashes involved intoxicated motorists between the ages of 16-20.

The Insurance industry and Students Against Destructive Decisions, (S.A.D.D.), are calling attention to risky behaviors by young people.  1 in 10 teens claim to never drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, but admit to taking the wheel after having a drink.

In a separate study of bar patrons last year, 40% of designated drivers say they consumed some alcohol. Designated drivers, if I remember correctly, are supposed to abstain from alcohol.

Kevin Connors is a Certified Insurance Counselor and licensed Property/Casualty and Life Insurance Agent at The Connors Insurance Agency in Mechanicville, NY.  Mr. Connors can be reached at (518)664-7307 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.