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A Minute of Health with CDC
December 8, 2006
Alcohol and Drug Use Among Traffic Fatalities in West Virginia 2004-2005

This podcast is presented by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
CDC – safer, healthier people.

Every half hour, someone is killed in a car accident involving a drinking driver.
Last year, over thirty percent of drivers killed in traffic crashes had blood alcohol
levels over the legal limit.

A group of CDC researchers specializes in alcohol and drug related injuries. In a
study in West Virginia, they found that men were more likely to be involved in
fatal drug and alcohol related crashes.

Fatal crashes involving victims less than 35 years old were more likely to involve
alcohol and people over 35 were more likely to have impairing drugs in their
systems. Narcotic painkillers, medicines for anxiety, and marijuana were the
most commonly detected drugs.

Be safe this holiday season and use public transportation or let a designated
driver get you home if you’ll be drinking or are impaired for any other reason.
Remember that some prescription and over-the-counter drugs can impair your
driving – especially if you’re starting a new medication or your dose is increased.
Ask your doctor if you have concerns.

Be sure to join us next week on A Minute of Health with CDC.
To access the most accurate and relevant health information that affects you,
your family, and your community, please visit www.cdc.gov.