Drunk Driving and the Holidays

Maverick Ray Law
January 1, 2018

Around the holiday season, drunk driving risks increase dramatically and cause a potential risk for anyone driving on the road. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, traffic safety data shows that alcohol-related automobile crashed are much higher than other any other time of the year. Also, NHTSA data has shown that from 2001-2005, 36 fatalities average per day on roadways due to impaired drivers on the road due to alcoholic substances. However, during the holiday season, that number jumps to an average of 54 per day. With that high number of drunk driving incidents, you may find yourself needing a DWI attorney in Houston. Here are a few tips to help you prevent drunk driving.

Tips for Drivers

If you’re drinking and driving on the road, no matter what time of the year it is, you’re responsible for your actions and potential crashes you create. If you’re drunk, you shouldn’t be driving on the road; it’s as simple as that.  Make sure you have a friend that’s not drinking to drive you home after a night out.
Make sure you are careful of what you consume. You don’t want to eat or drink too quickly, and make sure you don’t drink on an empty stomach. Preschedule a cab to pick you up or use a ride-share service so you get home safe and sound. If you can’t find a ride home, make sure you book a room in a nearby hotel before going out drinking. This way, if you feel tired, you can head straight to your room, or whenever the party ends.

Tips for Hosts

For the most part, most of us enjoy hosting parties for our close friends and family members. However, if you plan to serve alcoholic beverages, you should make sure your guests have a safe place to stay if they plan to stay the night or have a safe way to get home. Offer a few phone numbers for local cab services or offer to book an Uber or Lyft home. Take the keys away from anyone that’s drinking and offer to call them a cab or book them a ride-share service to get home safe. Offer food, coffee, and other non-alcoholic beverages to prevent your guests from getting too drunk and as an alternative option for people who are looking to stay sober during your party.

What You Can Do

Even if you’re not intoxicated while driving, you can still play a role in preventing accidents on the road. When driving, watch out for other drunk drivers on highways and roads. If you notice any suspicious driving behavior that leads you to believe a driver is intoxicated, call the police to report it. Provide them with the location of the car, make and model, and the license plate number. Doing so could save a life.

Contact a Houston DWI Attorney

Unfortunately, people still drive while under the influence of alcohol, even though they know the risks involved. During the holiday season when there are even more drivers under the influence on the roads, it’s important for every driver to be prepared and cautious. If you or a loved one was in a car accident involving a drunk driver, be sure to contact an injury attorney in Houston.