The Wednesday before the Thanksgiving holiday is one of the deadliest days of the year. Notably termed “Blackout Wednesday” and for good reason. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, from 2017 to 2021 there were 830 people that lost their lives in car accidents that were caused by drunk drivers during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Drivers 21 to 24 years of age made up 44% of the drunk drivers reported to be involved in those fatal crashes over Thanksgiving.
Enjoying fellowship with family and friends and taking time to reflect on what things in your life have brought you joy and that you are grateful for is important over the Thanksgiving holiday. To ensure that you and everyone around you are safe, there are certain things you can prepare for and do if you are going to be on the road over the holiday season.
Due to the heavy drinking that starts on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving which signals the kick-off to the start of the holiday season, there is a greater risk for crashes happening. If you are going on a road trip or traveling throughout the holiday season, it is important to be aware of this heightened risk. Should a crash happen, talking with an attorney can be helpful.
In California, the Los Angeles personal injury attorney at Levia Law Firm can meet with you and discuss your accident and if you have a case to make for financial compensation.
How To Stay Safe On Thanksgiving
There is a 55% higher risk that you will encounter a drunk driver if you are on the road over the Thanksgiving holiday. This is significant. And even though, drunk driving is illegal and crashes by drunk drivers are completely preventable and avoidable, people still drink and get behind the wheel. To make sure that you get to your destination in one piece and unharmed this Thanksgiving, consider the NHTSA’s following safety tips.
- If you are going to drink, plan ahead. Have a designated driver or have another form of transportation secured like a rideshare. Or, if you can, plan on staying overnight so you can tackle driving in the morning.
- If you see someone attempting to drive who has been drinking, intervene. Kindly connect with them and help them arrange a sober driver to take them where they need to go.
- When hosting a party, remember to have plenty of water and non-alcoholic beverage options. It is best to also watch what you drink so you can ensure that all of your guests are safe with transportation.
- Remember to always buckle up when you are in a car and keep children in their appropriate child safety seats.
- Minimize distractions while driving.
- Know your route to your location and have a backup route as well.
- Do not drive if you are feeling tired.
- Try to drive during the day when visibility is at its best.
Speak to an Attorney at Leiva Law Firm Today
It is important that you and your loved ones are safe over the holiday season. If you need assistance with a personal injury claim, though, contact the Leiva Law Firm to schedule a free consultation with an attorney at (818) 519-4465.
