Alcohol and drug-related crashes are entirely preventable. Lives are saved when drivers choose to drive sober or plan for a safe ride home. In North Dakota, impaired driving remains a critical safety challenge.
- Over the past five years, 167 people have died in alcohol-related crashes in our state.
- Alcohol is a factor in approximately one-third of all fatal crashes annually.
- In 2024, 23% of traffic deaths in North Dakota were alcohol-related.
North Dakota law prohibits driving or being in "actual physical control" of a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Penalties have been strengthened to deter repeat offenses and protect the public.
- BAC Limit: It is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
- Implied Consent: Refusing a chemical test is a crime and may result in the loss of driving privileges for 180 days to 3 years.
- Minor in Vehicle: A DUI with a minor passenger results in a Class A misdemeanor and up to 360 days imprisonment.
- Serious Injury or Death: Criminal vehicular injury carries up to 5 years in prison; criminal vehicular homicide carries up to 20 years.
Underage drinking is illegal and dangerous. Alcohol affects judgment and reaction time, leading to life-changing consequences. North Dakota maintains a Zero Tolerance policy for drivers under 21.
- Legal Limit for Minors: It is illegal for anyone under 21 to operate a vehicle with a BAC of 0.02% or higher.
- Penalties: Underage alcohol use can result in "Minor in Possession" or "Minor in Consumption" charges, leading to fines, community service and license suspension.
Everyone has a role in preventing impaired driving. Make safety your priority:
- Drive Sober: Always stay alert and sober behind the wheel.
- Plan Ahead: Use a ride service, a designated driver or the ND Sober Ride program (which provides Lyft and Uber vouchers during holidays).
- Report Impaired Drivers: If you see someone driving dangerously, call 9-1-1 immediately.
- Wear Your Seat Belt: It is your best defense against an impaired driver.
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