Drunk driving accidents can obviously happen at any time of the year, but the risk gets heightened during the holiday season. The period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day is a festive time filled with parties. Unfortunately, some people over-indulge and cause wrecks as a result. Also, people who don’t normally imbibe will sometimes have a drink or two, increasing the danger even further.
If you have been hurt in an accident caused by a drunk driver, or suffered the horrible loss of a loved one, please get in touch with Sand Law as soon as you can. We have a lot of years of experience in this area, and we’ve achieved a lot of success on behalf of our clients. Let us show you how we may be able to do the same for you by calling 651-291-7263 or using our online form to schedule a free review of your case.
Here are a few tips to help you avoid a drunk driving accident, and some information on what to do if you are involved in one.
Avoid Driving When You Can
It’s obviously impossible for anyone to completely stay off of the road for more than a month, but a good rule of thumb this time of the year will be simply not to drive if you don’t have to. The last thing anyone wants to see is someone dying, or being severely hurt, because they were driving unnecessarily and wound up being hit by a drunk driver.
There are certain days during the holiday season that are worse than others. New Year’s Day, for example (especially after midnight) is a particularly dangerous day. Christmas can be a risky day to drive as well. No matter what day it is (and no matter what the season), always try not to drive between midnight and 3 a.m. These have historically been the times where the most drunk drivers are on the road.
Learn How to Identify Potential Drunk Drivers
It’s usually fairly easy to spot someone driving while drunk. They might, for example, stop well before a stop sign, or they might hit their brakes for no reason. Drink drivers will also make illegal turns in many instances because they didn’t turn when they were supposed to do so. They will obviously swerve or drift, and will come very close to hitting objects on the road, or run up on a curb.
Keep Your Distance from Drivers Who Appear Intoxicated
While most impaired drivers are typically drunk, they may not have had a drop of alcohol. They may have smoked some marijuana, or they may be under the influence of an opioid or some other type of powerful drug. Regardless of the reason someone might
If you have to drive when the risk of encountering impaired drivers is at its highest, there are a few steps you can take to reduce the chances of being involved in an accident. For example, always carefully check your rearview mirrors when you’re at a red light. An impaired driver might not realize you’ve stopped, and that could lead to a serious collision.
The biggest thing you can do, however, is to simply stay as far away as possible from any vehicle you suspect is being driven by an impaired driver. Don’t get anywhere close, even if you’re coming up on the exit you need to take. If you have to, just take the next one and circle back.
If that driver is coming up from behind, get into the lane that is farthest away. Especially if that car is approaching at a high rate of speed, or seems to be swerving. If you have to try and pass a suspected drunk driver, again, do it in the lane that gives you as much separation as possible. Actually, the best course of action will be to slow down and leave several car lengths between you and that vehicle.
Never flash your bright lights at the vehicle, and definitely don’t try any maneuvers to slow that other car. If you feel that person is a danger to others on the road, pull over and call 911.
Always Have a Designated Driver if You’ve Been Drinking
It’s natural for a lot of people to have a few drinks during the holiday season, since there are so many get-togethers. But if you plan on drinking, you’ll also need to have a plan to get home safely.
The best way to do that is to have a designated driver go with you to whatever kind of gathering you’re attending. This will especially be true if you don’t typically drink, because you’ll have no idea how many alcoholic beverages it will take for you to become inebriated.
If you’re going to attend a party at a friend or family member’s house, see if there’s a way you can stay overnight so you don’t have to get behind the wheel. If you can, then remember to bring a bag with a change of clothes, a toothbrush, toothpaste and whatever other hygiene products you’ll need. Also bring any medications you’ll need to take.
If neither a designated driver nor an overnight stay will be an option, prepare to call a rideshare service or a taxi if you’re going to drink. You’ll have to keep your vehicle at the location of the party until the next morning, but a little inconvenience is a lot better than putting yourself or others in danger.
Contact a Drunk Driving Accident Attorney if You’re Involved in an Accident
Any sort of car accident can obviously lead to terrible consequences, including severe head injuries, debilitating back injuries, and more. Knowing you were hurt by someone who made the conscious decision to drink and drive can make your suffering even worse.
We obviously hope you’re not involved in an accident with a drunk driver during what is supposed to be the best time of the year. In the unfortunate event you are, the attorneys with Sand Law will be here for you. Contact us online or call 651-291-7263 for a free consultation.