Plan Ahead to Avoid a Drunk Driving Accident This Holiday Season

 Posted on November 15, 2018 in Car Accidents

With just a few short days to go before Thanksgiving, and with the winter holidays fast approaching, now is the time to consider your strategy for preventing drunk driving-related arrests or, worse, injuries. The holidays are a time for families and friends to celebrate with festive gatherings that often include delicious meals, lavish desserts, and, in many cases, beer, wine, and cocktails. If your holiday plans involve alcoholic beverages, enjoy yourself, but make a plan to get home safely and encourage your loved ones to do the same.

Seasonal Spike in Injuries

While it is difficult to pinpoint the exact percentage of increased risk, the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that more than 725 people are killed or injured in drunk-driving crashes every day during the holiday season, with more than 25,000 total accidents. On any given day during the year, drunk driving plays a role in about 30 percent of highway fatalities, Around Thanksgiving, and for the rest of the year, that number jumps to 40 percent, tragically culminating over the New Year’s holiday, during which alcohol contributes to nearly 60 percent of roadway deaths.

Make a Plan…

The most important thing you can do to avoid drunk driving this holiday season is to be prepared. “Prepared” can mean different things for different people. You may choose to drink only a very modest amount or not at all, remaining sober and unimpaired for the drive home. Similarly, you may designate a driver who is not drinking at all. In some families, one designated driver may even be willing to make several trips to ensure that everyone is safe. Finally, alternative transportation may be another solution. Call a cab, even if you will need to wait for a while, or use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. Whatever the expense may be for a ride home, it pales in comparison to the potential costs of a DUI ticket or injury.

…and a Back-Up Plan

Keep in mind that large family gatherings, especially those involving travel, can be unpredictable. What if your designated driver suddenly is not feeling well or if you intended to stay sober, but a particular drink hit you harder than you realized? Whatever your plan was, have a back-up alternative. Be ready to request an Uber or to stay with another family member, for example. Do not wait until you are already drunk before trying to make good choices. Make them ahead of time and get home alive.

Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers in Will County

Sometimes, all the planning in the world cannot account for the negligent behavior of others. If you have been injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver, contact an experienced Orland Park personal injury attorney. We will investigate your case and help you collect that compensation you need to get back on your feet. Call 708-888-2160 today to schedule a confidential consultation with Schwartz Injury Law.

Sources:

http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/thanksgiving-eve-kicks-off-deadliest-season-for-drunk-driving-300182484.html

http://www.bactrack.com/blogs/expert-center/35042821-the-most-dangerous-times-on-the-road