Alcohol figures in increased fatal crashes with graduates
From our weekly issue dated April 30, 2008
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released data from its Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) showing that alcohol-related fatalities increase between the middle of April and the middle of June.
What’s significant about these time periods? It happens to be when teen-agers tend to do a lot of partying, namely prom and graduation.
“Alcohol is one of the most difficult drugs to combat, especially with youth,” comments Gary Smith, executive director of Narconon Arrowhead, “as it is a legal drug easily obtained. Clear and effective prevention and education measures must be taken.”
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FARS data show that during 2000, some 58 percent of traffic fatalities were alcohol-related during the prom and graduation period. This compares with 41 percent for the rest of the year. Also, 36 percent of all alcohol-related traffic fatalities are people between the ages of 15 and 20, below the legal age to consume alcoholic beverages.
These data show that more work needs to be done on the education and prevention front. Advertisements from alcoholic beverage companies specifically market to our nation’s youth, depicting a fun atmosphere, good-looking people and sometimes a picture of total irresponsibility, making it appealing for rebellious or thrill-seeking teen-agers.
“Nobody starts using drugs or alcohol with the intent of becoming addicted or losing their lives,” said Smith, “but when people wait and don’t get help immediately, they can die or end up in the hospital or prison. Some people are fortunate enough to get the help they need but those are the people that have the courage to reach out.”
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For information on Narconon’s successful drug treatment and educational programs and materials, phone (800) 468-6933 or visit www.stopaddiction.com.
