In a legal sense, drunk driving refers to the operation of a motor vehicle while intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol. It is most often proven with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) test to prove that a driver was above the legal limit of .08. However, even lower levels of BAC can impact a person's driving and the safety of those on the road around them. Drunk driving is a problem that is pervasive and widespread in Wisconsin and throughout the United States.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the last reporting year:
28 percent of all automobile-related fatalities involved drunk drivers.
Over 10,000 people suffered fatal injuries in drunk driving accidents.
More than 1 million motorists were arrested for driving under the influence.
According to Keep Wisconsin Safe, more adults are reportedly driving drunk:
On average, 1.7 percent of U.S. adults admit to driving after drinking too much.
In Wisconsin, 2.4 percent of adults have confessed to drinking and driving.