Christmas and New Year’s Eve are just a few days away. This is a time of celebration for families across the country, but it’s also a time where people engage in binge drinking. There is usually a spike in dui accidents and fatalities during the holidays, bringing tragedy instead of joy.
To discourage drivers from reckless behavior, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is running its annual anti-DUI campaign “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.” This year, the ad will be shown in movie theaters before the new Star Warsfilm to reach the largest number of viewers possible.
Over 40 percent of traffic deaths during Christmas and New Year’s involve alcohol. These two holidays consistently rank among the worst days for fatal auto accidents.
The National Safety Council also predicts that this will be the deadliest Christmas holiday in seven years. Thanks to milder weather and Christmas falling on a Friday, more travelers are expected on the roads. They estimate that 307 people will be killed and 37,200 will be seriously injured this Christmas, the highest since 2009.
Safe Driving Tips
Never use your cell phone while driving
Always Wear Your Seatbelt
Do not allow your teenage children to drive with friends
Designate a non-drinking driver or arrange for alternate transportation
Get plenty of sleep before a long road trip and take frequent breaks
DUI accidents are the most easily preventable types of accidents. All you have to do is choose not to drink and get behind the wheel of a car. Despite stiff penalties and widespread publicity campaigns, millions of Americans make the bad decision to drive after drinking alcohol.
If you choose to drink this holiday season, please remember to designate a driver, or arrange for alternate transportation. Don’t get into the car with another driver who has been drinking. Don’t let your friends drive drunk.
Even the most careful people can still be hurt by the bad decisions of others. If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk driver, call a Baton Rouge auto accident lawyer from the law offices of Simien & Simien today. Our personal injury attorneys can help get you the compensation you deserve.
