How Common Is Drunk Driving on New Year’s Eve?
Although New Year’s Eve is one of the most exciting holidays, it is also a notorious day for accidents. In 2019, 28% of traffic fatalities were due to alcohol-impaired drivers, but this number jumps to 36% of traffic fatalities during this end-of-year holiday.
At the Law Office of Hillel Traub, our experienced DUI attorneys know that even a few drinks can put you over the legal limit, and you should do everything you can to avoid impaired driving and putting yourself and others at risk. If you do get pulled over and charged with DUI on New Year’s Eve, however, it’s crucial that you do everything you can to protect your legal rights and your future.
Drunk Driving on New Year’s Eve by the Numbers
According to data from the Insurance Information Institute, drunk driving deaths are significantly higher on New Year’s Eve than any other day of the year. In 2019, there were 428 fatal accidents on New Year’s Eve, with 36% of those being caused by alcohol-impaired drivers. Research also showed that crashes caused by drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol are more prevalent around Christmas and New Year’s Day compared with Thanksgiving Day, which is typically the busiest travel holiday of the year.
How to Avoid Getting a DUI on New Year’s Eve and Other Safety Tips
Clearly, driving during the end-of-year holiday is very dangerous. Police and emergency services obviously plan for this to be an extremely busy time and prepare accordingly with increased patrols and DUI checkpoints. While these measures are meant to keep you and other drivers safe, there are also a few measures that you yourself can take.
Don’t Drink and Drive
This tip is obvious, yet often overlooked. The best way to not get a DUI is to not drink and drive. If you have been drinking, make sure to use Uber or another ride sharing service.
Plan Ahead
This goes hand in hand with the previous tip, if you’re planning on drinking, make sure you know how you’ll be getting home safely. If ride sharing services aren’t available in your area, ask a friend ahead of time to be a designated driver and take you home safely.
Preempt Friends and Family from Drinking and Driving
Don’t let your friends and family drive under the influence. Help them find a ride home and keep them and others safe by not letting them get behind the wheel. If you host a party, make sure your guests leave responsibly with a sober driver.
If You Have to Drive, Be Mindful of Others
You might be sober, but that won’t keep other drivers from getting on the road under the influence of alcohol. Wear your seatbelt and use caution while you are on the road.
Be Vigilant
If you see an impaired driver, make sure to contact police or other authorities. Even if they pass you without incident, they could cause an accident or even a fatal crash for others.
Contact a Skilled Maryland Drunk Driving Attorney
If you get pulled over for drunk driving on New Year’s Eve or at any other time, it’s critical that you speak with an attorney as soon as you can. The lawyers at the Law Firm of Hillel Traub know how seriously a DUI conviction can affect your life and will do everything possible to bring your case to a favorable resolution. To schedule a free case evaluation with a DUI defense attorney in Baltimore or the surrounding area, call our office today at (410) 580-1100 or contact us online.