Risks Associated with Drunk Driving During the Holidays

Many look forward to celebrating the holiday season with good food and drink. However, alcoholic beverages are a common element at holiday parties and get-togethers, which may lead revelers to make the wrong decision to drive after indulging. Even the most restrained guests may not realize they have imbibed too many cocktails until it is too late, resulting in an accident that leaves casualties or injuries in its wake. To ensure the holiday season remains merry and bright, be aware of the risks associated with drunk driving.

A Dangerous Time to Travel

During the Christmas and New Year’s season, there is a sharp spike in impaired driving accidents. On average, nearly 30 Americans are fatally injured in drunk driving crashes every day in December. Driving while under the influence poses multiple risks to all parties involved including the passengers, other motorists, and pedestrians.

Due to the excess of holiday events, anyone who chooses to imbibe – from those who rarely drink, to individuals who may have serious drinking problems – may be in danger of intoxicated driving. Those who normally avoid alcohol may be inclined to consider holiday parties as the time to let loose and overindulge. This can be especially dangerous, as their low tolerance may make them more susceptible to the effects of alcohol, as well as impair their judgment when deciding to get behind the wheel. No matter their relationship with alcohol, a driver caught with a blood alcohol content level at or exceeding 0.08 will face penalties including fines, the suspension of their driver’s license, and even jail time.

Even small amounts of alcohol can have deadly consequences for drivers dealing with other typical hazards associated with driving during the holiday season. They may be unfamiliar with the roads and neighborhoods upon which they travel, they may speed, or drive while distracted by their phone or GPS. If the event occurs in the evening, a driver’s vision may be compromised due to the darkness but also because of the alcoholic haze that obscures their sight, which increases the likelihood of an accident.

Ways to Prevent Drunk Driving Accidents

The best way to prevent drunk driving accidents is to avoid drinking alcohol at all and to enjoy a non-alcoholic beverage instead. Activities that do not involve alcohol as the focus may offer an alternate celebration for merrymakers.

If you do choose to drink, enlist a designated driver or arrange a taxi or service like Uber or Lyft to ensure you get home safely. Keeping track of the number and type of drinks you consume may serve as way to determine your level of sobriety. However, do not rely on the guideline that one drink per hour will keep you sober. Many factors such as tolerance, food consumption, weight, and hydration play into how intoxicated you may actually be. Ultimately, only time, not coffee or more food, will make you sober enough to drive safely.

Philadelphia Accident Lawyers at Freedman & Lorry, P.C. Represent Victims Injured in a Drunk Driving Accident

A holiday season spent indulging in spirits may lead to unforeseen and tragic consequences if a drunk driver gets behind the wheel. If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident, call the seasoned Philadelphia accident lawyers at Freedman & Lorry, P.C. at 888-999-1962 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your legal options or contact us online. We proudly serve clients in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and North Carolina from our offices in Philadelphia, Cherry Hill, and Pinehurst.