Thanksgiving and Drunk Driving
As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, a time for gratitude and family gatherings, we must also acknowledge a dangerous trend that escalates during this festive period. According to the National Safety Council, 36% of fatalities during the Thanksgiving Day period involved an alcohol-impaired driver. In fact, more deadly DUI-related crashes occur on Thanksgiving Day than the day before or after, with 31% of all car accidents on this day related to DUIs. To make matters worse, the trend seems to be going in the wrong direction: between 2019-2020, Thanksgiving DUI fatalities were up 23 percent.
In response to these numbers, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an awareness campaign, “Don’t Be a Turkey This Thanksgiving: Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.” The campaign underscores the severe physical and legal consequences of impaired driving. Drunk driving put lives at risk. Those found guilty could face serious legal repercussions, including hefty fines, loss of license, and even jail time–not to mention costly personal injury lawsuits (since drunk drivers are presumed liable in Colorado for any injuries they cause).
Staying Safe During Thanksgiving
As we gear up for the holiday season, here are some practical tips to ensure safety for all:
- Designate a Sober Driver: If your Thanksgiving plans involve alcohol, ensure you have a designated sober driver.
- Stick to a Limit: If you indulge, know your limits and stick to them. (For most people, more than one alcoholic beverage per hour creates impairment.)
- Stay Overnight: If possible, arrange to stay overnight where you are celebrating to avoid any risks associated with impaired driving.
- Use Rideshare Services: Utilize services like Uber, Lyft, or an old-fashioned taxi if you’ve been drinking.
- Report Drunk Drivers: If you spot a drunk driver on the road, report them to local law enforcement immediately.
This is not a time for unnecessary risks. Let’s ensure we all get home safely this Thanksgiving.
We are Here to Help
Were you or a loved one injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver during the Thanksgiving period? Remember that you are not alone. Contact our experienced personal injury attorneys, who can provide the legal support you need during this challenging time. We know the nuances of the law. We work to get you the full amount of compensation to which you are entitled.
(303) 592-5910