Unveiling the Consequences: The Impact of Drunk Driving on the Rising Accident

Abstract

Alcohol-impaired driving remains a persistent public safety concern that contributes to road traffic injuries and fatalities. While national policies in the Philippines prohibit driving under the influence of alcohol, limited empirical studies have examined how local social practices, enforcement conditions, and community perceptions influence the persistence of this behavior in smaller urban settings. This study explored the experiences and perceptions related to drunk driving in a city in Misamis Occidental, Philippines. A qualitative phenomenological design was employed to capture the lived experiences of individuals affected by drunk-driving incidents. Twelve participants who had experienced such incidents as victims were purposively selected based on inclusion criteria such as direct involvement in alcohol-related road incidents within the past three years. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Colaizzi’s phenomenological method to identify significant statements, formulate meanings, and generate thematic categories. Data saturation was achieved after the twelfth interview, as no new themes emerged. The analysis produced several interrelated themes: the growing prevalence and cultural normalization of drunk driving; alcohol accessibility and weak law enforcement; drunk driving as a major cause of road accidents; challenges in law enforcement and social attitudes; and community-based and policy solutions for road safety. The findings suggest that alcohol-impaired driving is influenced not only by individual behavior but also by cultural norms, enforcement limitations, and structural conditions within the community. Anchored in deterrence theory and social norms theory, the study highlights how perceived low risk of punishment and cultural acceptance reinforce risky driving behaviors. Addressing the issue therefore requires coordinated responses that combine stronger law enforcement, institutional support, and sustained public education on responsible alcohol consumption and road safety. The study recommends strengthening community awareness programs, enhancing sobriety checkpoint operations, and improving enforcement capacity through training and adequate equipment. These measures may contribute to more effective prevention strategies and promote safer road practices within local communities.