In 2008, over 11,500 people died in an alcohol related accident, nationwide. But in New York City, that figure has actually gone down. Drinking while under the influence, otherwise known as a DUI, is an offence taken very seriously in New York.
DUIs are down 266 from 2006, a 34% difference for Staten Islanders, according to the Staten Island District Attorney, Daniel M. Donovan, Jr. This decrease shows that people are actually taking a more mature role when attending a party.
This decrease doesn’t come as a surprise to the NYPD. After an increase in awareness programs by the District Attorney’s Office, Highway Patrol, and other substance abuse prevention programs, people began to realize that you just couldn’t get away with it.
Other factors that may have caused a decrease in DUI rates as well. On television, the Ad Council has released a new advertisement campaign targeting the obvious effect alcohol has on driving.
“Those advertisements do show that it is pretty obvious to see if you are intoxicated. Maybe they do go a bit far, but they do prove a point,” said sophomore Kevin Cahill.
In the Department of Education, DUI awareness and prevention has been increased among students.
“There is more awareness of DUIs, and people are beginning to realize that it is becoming our #1 drug. And with drinking, there becomes a responsibility not to drive,” according to SAPIS Counselor, Ms. Hattie Slaughter.
MADD is an organization that is geared to stop drunk driving, support the victims of this violent crime and prevent underage drinking.
As reported on its website, “MADD announces an exclusive license agreement with Hill Street Marketing Inc. to produce a line of alcohol-free beverages, MADD Virgin Drinks, which will provide American consumers with a delicious and socially responsible alternative to alcoholic beverages.”
This may be due to the lack of increase in police activity. There is also the possibility that people may be affected by celebrities.
Some of these “role models”, such as Lindsay Lohan and NFL Football player Jacoby Jones, are choosing to disobey the law and commit DUIs themselves.
“Celebrities are role models! It’s a horrible example to set for others when they commit a DUI, as they might even do the same thing just to be like them,” said freshman Diana-Maria Estrada.
For this decrease to be continued across America, cities should partake in the same actions taken by the NYPD and the 122nd Precinct on Staten Island.
People may learn to make better decisions about driving after a drink.
God is not dead, he is merely unemployed.–Walt Kelly, "Pogo" comic strip