During the holidays, the number of travelers on our roads peaks as friends and family gather together to celebrate. Thanksgiving weekend is the most traveled weekend of the year. This doesn’t mix well with the fact that Thanksgiving Eve is the busiest night of the year for bars and fatalities due to drunk drivers and DUI arrests are at their highest. Here are a few tips to avoid the dangers of the road this Thanksgiving and throughout this holiday season.
Use a Designated Driver
If you, or someone you know, is planning on celebrating the holidays with alcoholic beverages, use a designated driver. If you’re hosting a party, schedule rides for your guests for a certain time. Uber, Lyft, or any other transportation-related company can be used as a designated driver during the holidays.
Be Smart About Drinking
Even if you don’t plan on driving, be wise about how much you’re drinking. Don’t rely on the “one drink an hour” motto and make sure to have plenty of food and water. The consumption of food delays the absorption of alcohol, preventing a spike in intoxication.
Stay Well Rested
If you know you’re traveling for a long period in order to celebrate with your loved ones, make sure you map out a safe route and break up your trip. The longer you are on the road, the more likely you are to be driving while drowsy, which can be just as dangerous as driving while under the influence.
Book a Hotel or Stay with a Friend
Booking a room or staying with a friend is one of the best ways to avoid drinking and driving. Make sure to set up a clear plan before you start drinking so you can enjoy your night without stress or worry.
Impairment begins long before you reach the .08 level. There has been research that shows that certain skills needed to drive safely begin to deteriorate even at the .02 blood-alcohol level. Play it smart during this holiday season and don’t get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking.
If you or someone you know ends up a victim of a drinking and driving accident, contact us at 1-888-GOT-HURT. We can provide you with a FREE consultation and insight into compensation as a DWI victim.