While the holiday season can be the most beautiful time of year, it could also be the most dangerous for traveling. There are more parties and festivities to attend, which increases the likelihood of holiday drinking. This combination creates higher risks for an accident.
Binge Drinking
According to the American Addiction Center (AAC), The beginning of the Christmas season and the end of New Year's Day accounts for some of the highest incidents of binge drinking. Several risk factors can contribute to the uptick in driving under the influence during these times.
Alcohol-related fatalities increase approximately five times during holidays. There are several contributing factors to why there is an increased risk for holiday travel associated with impaired driving.
More Festivities
Many people consume alcohol during the many celebrations that take place from Thanksgiving until the new year, which increases the risk of a drunk-driving-related accident.
In 2018, during Christmas and New Year’s, there were 285 drunk-driving-related fatalities. In 2019, 10,142 people lost their lives due to a drunk-driving accident. These deaths could have been preventable; people often know of the dangerous risks of getting behind the wheel after a night of drinking. However, this epidemic still occurs, especially during the holidays.
Where We Can Step In
Though the holiday season can be a joyous time to celebrate with family and friends, it is always a good time to become more aware of the potential hazards such as alcohol impairment on the road. If you or a loved one has sustained an injury due to the negligence of a drunk driver, we want to help. Our firm has helped hundreds get the justice they deserve after selfish and reckless people get behind the wheel when they should not.
Kamper & Estrada, PLLC wants you to have a safe and healthy holiday season. Call (602) 230-1234 or fill out this short form to speak with a member of our team.
