Drunk driving is one of the leading causes of preventable motor vehicle accidents, and we all know that there tend to be more impaired drivers on the roads around the holidays.1 Office parties, family gatherings, and holiday celebrations often involve the consumption of alcohol, and perhaps none more so than New Year’s Eve parties. For many, December 31st is a night over overindulgence, often resulting in a spike in the number of drunk drivers on the road, despite the best efforts of law enforcement.
Keep Yourself Safe with Planning
Of course, one of the best ways you can avoid an accident on New Year’s Eve is to make sure that you do not drive after drinking yourself. Even moderate amounts of alcohol can impair your judgment and reaction time, so it is best to avoid drinking and driving altogether if possible. If you think you might drink at a social event that you are going to, you should make arrangements so that you are not tempted to drive yourself home after you have had a few. Some of the ways in which you can avoid drinking and driving this New Year’s include the following:
- Do not drive yourself to your destination – if you do not have your car, there is no risk that you will drive it home
- If you are going out with a group, make sure you have a designated driver
- Plan to sleep at your destination, if possible.
- Make sure to have the number of a cab company or ride sharing service handy
If You are Involved in an Accident with a Drunk Driver
In the event that you are involved in a crash caused by a drunk driver, there are certain steps that you should take to protect your legal rights. After an accident, you should:
- Call local law enforcement. They will determine whether the driver is drunk and, if he or she is, gather evidence that can strengthen your case.
- Go see your physician. A medical evaluation is an important part of recovering compensation.
- Stay off social media. Your posts could have a negative impact on your case.
- Call a lawyer. Retaining a skilled attorney is the best way to protect your rights.
- Call a Houston Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Today to Schedule a Free Consultation
If you are injured by a drunk driver this holiday season, you should speak to an attorney as soon as possible. For a free case evaluation, call Houston injury lawyer Stewart J. Guss today at 800-898-4877 or send us an email through our online contact form.
