As the holiday season approaches, many of us look forward to celebrating with family, friends, and
loved ones. However, amidst the joy and festivities, it’s crucial to remember that this time of year
also brings an increased risk of one of the most dangerous and preventable behaviors on the road:
drunk driving.

There can be devastating consequences that result from impaired driving, and with the holiday
season being one of the most dangerous times of the year on the road, we want to raise awareness
about the risks involved and offer practical advice to help keep you and your family safe.

How Common is Drunk Driving During the Holidays?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the period between
Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day consistently sees a spike in alcohol-related crashes and fatalities.
In fact, during the 2021 holiday season alone, there were 1,060 alcohol-impaired driving fatalities,
making up about 30% of all motor vehicle traffic deaths during that time. The reality is that
alcohol-impaired driving is a serious issue that significantly increases the likelihood of accidents,
injuries, and deaths.

In addition to alcohol impairment, many people also face the dangers of prescription drug use,
over-the-counter medications, or other substances during the holidays, which can compound the
risks on the road as the festive atmosphere of the holidays often leads people to let their guard
down when it comes to drinking and driving. Parties and gatherings, traveling and high traffic and
increased stress and pressure can all lead to an increase in drunk driving incidents.

The Consequences of Drunk Driving

The consequences of getting behind the wheel after drinking are not only dangerous but also life-
changing. Even if a driver doesn’t cause a fatal accident, they can still face severe legal
consequences. These may include:

 Criminal Charges: DUI (driving under the influence) or DWI (driving while intoxicated)
charges can result in hefty fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education
programs, and even jail time.
 Civil Liability: If a drunk driver causes an accident, they can be held financially
responsible for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. This can
lead to lengthy and costly legal battles.
 Injuries and Fatalities: The most tragic consequence of drunk driving is the loss of life or
severe injury. In many cases, innocent victims are the ones who suffer the most. Survivors
of drunk driving accidents may also experience long-term physical, emotional, and financial
hardships.

What You Can Do to Protect Yourself

As the holidays approach, it’s important to be proactive and vigilant when it comes to protecting
yourself and others from drunk driving accidents. Here are a few tips for staying safe on the roads:

1. Designate a Sober Driver: If you’re attending a holiday party or event where alcohol will
be served, make arrangements ahead of time for a designated driver or plan to use a ridesharing service like Uber or Lyft. It’s better to plan ahead than to risk driving under the
influence.
2. Know Your Limits: If you’re the one hosting, help your guests be mindful of their alcohol
consumption. Encourage moderation and offer plenty of non-alcoholic options. Also,
remind everyone that alcohol can impair judgment long before they feel "drunk."
3. Encourage Safe Alternatives: If you’re at a gathering and notice someone has been
drinking excessively, offer to arrange a safe ride home for them. By stepping in and being
the responsible one, you could save a life.
4. Be Extra Cautious on the Road: If you’re driving, be extra vigilant during the holiday
season. Watch for signs of impaired drivers on the road, such as erratic swerving, delayed
reactions, or driving without headlights at night. If you see a suspected drunk driver, pull
over and contact law enforcement immediately.
5. Avoid Driving at Peak Times: The days leading up to and immediately following major
holidays like Christmas and New Year’s tend to see increased traffic and higher rates of
impaired drivers. If possible, try to schedule your travel during off-peak hours or consider
staying overnight at your destination to avoid risky driving conditions.

Legal Help After a Drunk Driving Accident

If you or a loved one has been involved in a drunk driving accident, the aftermath can be
overwhelming. Not only do you have to deal with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and medical
bills, but you may also face challenges in holding the responsible party accountable.
Our law firm is committed to helping victims of all car crashes navigate the complex legal process.
We understand the pain and hardship that comes with these types of accidents, and our
experienced team is here to fight for your rights. Whether you need assistance with insurance
claims, securing compensation for damages, or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit, we can help you
every step of the way.

Conclusion

By staying informed, planning ahead, and making responsible choices, we can all contribute to
making the roads safer during this festive season. If you or someone you know has been affected
by a drunk driving accident, don’t hesitate to reach out for legal assistance.
Stay safe, drive sober, and have a joyful holiday season!