In the US, automobile accidents are a leading cause of death for individuals ages 1-54, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The risk of being in a car accident increases during the holiday season. There are several factors that contribute to this increase, including: impaired driving, distracted driving, tired drivers, increased traffic, and poor weather patterns.
Every holiday season, impaired driving results in the loss of hundreds of lives. Over the past five year, an average of 300 individuals died in crashes related to drunk driving in the week between Christmas and New Year’s. The U.S. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) reports that 40% of traffic-related fatalities during the winter holiday season involve drunk drivers.
This holiday season, help reduce the number of impaired drivers on the road. Don’t drink and drive. If you want to drink, plan a safe ride with a sober driver or call a cab. If you see a friend who has overindulged, offer to drive them home (if you are sober) or to help them find a safe ride.
When you’re on the road this holiday season (and throughout the rest of the year), be sure to buckle your seat belt, obey speed limits, and avoid distractions while driving. If you are traveling with children, be sure that they are in a car seat, booster seat, or seat belt as appropriate for their weight, height, and age.
Be safe this holiday season, especially if you are traveling!
With over 40 years of experience, John Schuerman is a compassionate advocate for injury victims and their families while being an aggressive fighter for justice and full compensation for their claims. If you or a loved one have suffered an injury from an automobile accident, call 1-800-274-0045 today for a free consultation. Evening and weekend appointments as well as home and hospital visits are available.
