DUI Risks During the Holiday Season: What You Need to Know
The holiday season is the most joyous and wonderful time of the year. There is a buzz of energy everywhere, as people prepare to enjoy the festivities of the season.
However, the stark reality is that it is also one of the most dangerous times of the year, when it comes to being out on the roads. According to the US Department of Transportation, an average of 300 people died each year over the past five years due to road accidents. The year 2016 had the highest rate of fatalities, with 781 people losing their lives.
The Main Cause of Holiday Roadside Fatalities:
Christmas and New Year come with increased activity on roads. More cars and pedestrians rush to get their shopping done for the. But while these activities contribute to the increased risk of accidents, the biggest cause is drunk driving.
Most holiday festivities involve the consumption of alcoholic beverages. According to a survey, over 51% of drivers said they drink more during the holidays than the rest of the year.
Staying Safe from DUIs during the Holidays:
The most obvious way to stay safe during the holidays is avoiding drinking and driving. However, you can't prevent others from driving under the influence. That's why you need to implement strategies to stay safe and avoid getting involved in a DUI-related accident.
Avoid Rushing Anywhere
The holidays can be stressful, and most people end up succumbing to last-minute shopping to get preparations done. As a result, they scramble to the extent that they aren't aware of their surroundings. This can increase their chance of getting injured by a drunk or distracted driver.
Make Sure You Have Designated Driver
While avoiding alcohol during the holidays is almost impossible—and takes a lot of fun out of the season—it's important to drink responsibly.
If you plan on having a few drinks, make sure you are either in the safety of your home or have designated sober friend that can drive you home afterward. Even if you've only had a few, it's always prudent to avoid getting behind the wheel.
Know the Laws
DUI laws vary according to every state. So if you plan on going out a lot during the holidays and know you'll be around alcohol, you should look up the state DUI laws to make sure you stay within the legal guidelines.
This will be helpful for you in case you are arrested on DUI charges or you have been a victim of a drunk driving incident.
Avoid Distractions!
Being distracted is the biggest factor that increases the risk of being involved in a DUI accident. Whether you are a pedestrian or driving a car, you need to be extra careful on the roads during the holidays. Avoid texting, speeding, or fiddling with the radio. This will help you stay extra vigilant in case there is a drunk driver just around the corner!
Expert Personal Injury Attorneys in Texas
If you or your loved one has been involved in a drunk driving accident and wants to file for compensation, get in touch with the skilled personal injury attorneys at the Estes Law Firm today!
Being one of the top personal injury law firms in Richmond, Texas, they can help you get maximum compensation for any damage, injuries or loss you might have suffered during the drunk driving accident.
This website is for informational purposes only and does not provide legal advice. All information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Please do not act or refrain from acting based on anything you read on this site. Always seek legal advice from a licensed attorney for any particular legal matter for the most up-to-date legal information
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