Pandemic Drives U.S. Alcohol Consumption, Impaired Driving Deaths
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant increase in alcohol consumption and impaired driving deaths in the U.S., according to a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The 'Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) Study' reveals a worrying trend linked to changes in alcohol policies and mental health struggles.
From March 2020 to August 2021, 60% of U.S. adults reported drinking more, with alcohol sales surging. Mental health issues, such as isolation, stress, and anxiety, contributed to this increase. Home delivery of alcohol from bars and restaurants was associated with more impaired-driver deaths, with around 304 additional deaths per year in states that adopted such policies.
Conversely, allowing bars and restaurants to sell to-go drinks was linked to fewer impaired-driver deaths. The pandemic also saw a rise in self-reported depressive episodes and suicide plans, further contributing to impaired driving. Reduced policing due to COVID-19 concerns may have lowered hesitation about drinkers getting behind the wheel.
Impaired-driving deaths increased from 28% in 2019 to 30% in 2020 and remained elevated through 2022. The IIHS study highlights the need for policy changes and mental health support to address this concerning trend. States should consider the impact of alcohol policies on road safety and ensure adequate policing to deter impaired driving.
