The national debate over the consequences of increasing the speed limit on federal highways has had an unintended benefit. It has reminded people that speed is only one of two major killers on road. The other is alcohol.

Last year, 189 Mainers died in motor vehicle crashes. There were a variety of causes, but two that recurred often in police reports were imprudent speed and alcohol consumption. Because of the variables, accident reconstruction following any tragedy is difficult. But as many as 65 of those deaths might have been prevented if motorists had abstained from drinking, taken a cab or appointed a designated driver.

National organizations committed to ending drunken driving notice that a lively public dialogue plays a significant role in lowering the incidence of operating under the influence. Just talking about the problem raises public awareness of the practice and its implications. It also reminds motorists of the tougher laws that have been passed in the last decade.

The laws and the dialogue have produced a sea change in the societal behavior. Casual drinkers today are far more cautious about getting behind the wheel. Young drivers know the state will come down especially hard on them. When they take a drink, they jeopardize their license and insurance rates. They also lower the odds dramatically of succesfully responding to situations that could produce accidents.

There is a projection that as many as 6,400 additional people will die on the highways nationally if speed limits are increased, state by state. That can be debated. One thing that is known, however, is that reducing the rate at which people drink and drive will save lives.

December and the holidays historically are a peak period for alcohol abuse and OUI. The state has launched a safety campaign to remind motorists of the dangers, and the consequences of drunken driving. More compelling for Maine people are vivid memories of brutal accidents that claimed the lives of children, pedestrians and families.

The dialogue over speed limits couldn’t come at a better time.