St. Patrick’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate Irish culture and heritage. It always involves a lot of fun. You get to dress up like your favorite character or wear green and drink green beer. But while you’re having a good time, it’s important to make sure that you’re not being held responsible for the actions of whatever miserable leprechaun might happen to show up at your party.
Drunk Driving Accidents During St. Patrick’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day is a great time to celebrate, but it’s also one of the busiest drinking holidays in the United States. On average, there are more than 1,000 alcohol-related accidents on St. Patrick’s Day each year, according to the National Safety Council (NSC).
The NSC says that about 1 in 10 drivers involved in an alcohol-related traffic crash on St. Patrick’s Day will be arrested for driving under the influence (DUI). That number increases to nearly 50 per cent if the driver has been drinking before getting behind the wheel.
In addition to DUI arrests, other factors that increase your chances of being involved in an accident include:
- Driving while fatigued or impaired by alcohol or drugs;
- Excessive speeding;
- Failure to maintain control of your vehicle.
How to Prevent Getting in a Car Accident During this Holiday
When driving during this time, it’s important to be careful and aware of the road conditions. Here are some tips for staying safe during the holiday season:
- Don’t drink and drive: This is one of the most common reasons for car accidents during this time of year because people forget that they are still driving after drinking alcohol or having too much to eat. Alcohol impairs judgment, slows reaction times, increases risk-taking behavior, reduces peripheral vision and increases risk-taking behavior, which can lead to dangerous situations. Make sure you don’t drink alcohol before getting behind the wheel.
- Have a designated driver or take public transportation: Although this may sound like an inconvenience, it could save your life if something goes wrong while driving yourself home from dinner or overspending at an event where everyone else has been drinking all day long.
- Plan ahead: Don’t just show up at your destination with no idea where you’re going or how much time will be required to get there. Plan with your spouse or companion so they can take over driving duties if needed and ensure everyone has enough time to arrive safely at their destination before midnight.
Injured by a Negligent Driver? What to Do
If you have been injured in an accident, there are steps you should take to protect your rights and get justice for your injuries.
First, report the incident to the police. If possible, take photographs of any damage to property or vehicles involved in the accident. Get medical treatment and contact an attorney specializing in personal injury cases.
We have recovered millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for our clients, and we will work tirelessly to pursue the compensation you need and deserve. Contact our Las Vegas personal injury firm at 702.333.4223 to schedule your free initial consultation.