How to Avoid a Drunk Driving Accident During the Holidays
December 22, 2022
The holidays can be a time of joy, but they also present some risks. One such risk is the increased chance of being in a drunk driving accident. To help keep you and your family safe during this festive season, the Amaro Law Firm has provided some tips on how to avoid a drunk driving accident.
How to Avoid Drunk Driving Accidents During the Holidays | Amaro Law Firm
Drunk driving crashes are common during the holidays. The car accident attorneys at the Amaro Law Firm have provided tips that can help keep yourself, friends, and family safe during the winter holidays.
Plan Ahead
Before going out, plan a safe way home. Research public transportation options. You can also contact a sober friend or family member who can give you and your loved ones a ride home after the festivities.
Wear a Seatbelt
Wearing a seatbelt is always important, but it’s especially critical if you’re sharing the road with an impaired driver. A seatbelt can help reduce the risk of serious injury in an accident.
Don’t Let Your Friends Drink and Drive
If you’re going out with friends, don’t allow them to get behind the wheel if they’ve been drinking. Offer to be a designated driver or call Uber or Lyft.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Pay close attention to the road and other drivers. If you notice someone driving erratically, give them extra space and contact the authorities if necessary.
How to Identify Potential Drunk Drivers
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there is an increased risk of alcohol-related crashes during the holiday season. Because of this, learning how to identify potential drunk drivers is important. Identifying a drunk motorist can help you avoid a costly and potentially deadly accident.
If you see any of the following signs of erratic driving, contact law enforcement immediately:
- Swerving
- Speeding up and slowing down excessively
- Weaving in and out of lanes
These driving behaviors can indicate that the driver is intoxicated. Other warning signs include:
- Drivers who ignore stop signs or traffic signals
- Drivers that are constantly braking
- Motorists that are driving without headlights at night
In addition to watching for erratic driving, staying aware of your surroundings is key. If you spot someone who appears visibly intoxicated, it’s best to stay away from them and contact the authorities. Signs of intoxication can include:
- Slurred speech
- Unsteady balance
- The noticeable odor of alcohol
By being aware of the warning signs that a driver may be intoxicated, avoiding driving in high-traffic areas during peak hours, and designating a sober driver when necessary, you can avoid an unfortunate accident this holiday season.
Contact an Automobile Accident Attorney Today at the Amaro Law Firm
Due to the increased risk of drunk driving accidents during the holidays, it’s important to learn about the extra precautions you can take to stay safe and prevent a serious or fatal accident.
Unfortunately, it’s not entirely possible to prevent a motor vehicle accident if you are sharing the road with an intoxicated driver.
If you or someone you know was injured in a drunk driving accident, you should contact the Amaro Law Firm today. Our car accident attorneys offer free, no-obligation legal consultations. At a consultation, you can meet with an experienced attorney to discuss your case and learn how our legal team can help you recover compensation for all accident-related damages.