The Dangers of Drunk Driving During The Holiday Season

December is in full swing. Not only is it the holiday season, but it's also National Impaired Driving Prevention Month and a time to raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving. The holiday season is a great time to celebrate with friends and family. However, it often sees a tragic rise in alcohol-related crashes and fatalities. In December 2022 alone, 1,062 people lost their lives in drunk-driving crashes—the highest number in 15 years. This period also accounted for over 4,750 deaths from 2018 to 2022.

Why is December particularly dangerous for drunk driving?

The holiday season brings a surge in social gatherings, family reunions, and festive events, many of which involve alcohol consumption. This increase in drinking, combined with increased travel and often stressful schedules, leads to more individuals making the dangerous decision to drive while impaired. Additionally, the combination of increased alcohol availability, social pressures, and the hustle and bustle of the season creates a perfect storm for impaired driving.

December is also the darkest month of the year, with the shortest day of the year falling on December 21st. More nighttime driving means reduced visibility and the potential risk of drowsy driving. According to the National Safety Council, most drivers can only see 250 feet in front of them when driving at night with normal headlights. With the high beams on, visibility only increases to 500 feet.

Where does alcohol impairment start and end?

Alcohol’s impact starts with the first drink. A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of only .02 percent results in increased relaxation and mild loss of judgment. While this level is technically legal, it can still be a contributing factor in an impaired driving crash. Additionally, these drivers are at a greater risk of falling asleep at the wheel. At a BAC level of .05, drivers begin to experience more pronounced impairment, such as loss of coordination, muscle control, and judgment. With continued drinking, reaction times worsen, speech slurs, and balance diminishes.

Even when drinking stops, the effects linger. Alcohol in the stomach and intestines continues to enter the bloodstream and impair coordination and judgment for hours. Misjudging these lingering effects is a common factor in drunk driving accidents. Unfortunately, many drivers during the holiday season become too confident in their ability to operate a vehicle while under the influence.

How can drunk driving crashes be prevented?

Responsibility behind the wheel saves lives. Here are some ways to prevent drunk driving crashes this holiday season:

• If you drink, don’t drive; plan a safe ride home in advance or arrange for a sober driver.
• Stop anyone who’s been drinking from driving; take their keys and help them find a sober ride.
• Hosting a party? Ensure guests leave with a safe, sober driver.
• Always wear your seat belt; it’s your best protection against impaired drivers.
• Spot an impaired driver? Call local law enforcement; your action could save lives.

What myths lead to dangerous decisions?

Despite years of public awareness campaigns, misconceptions about alcohol remain widespread:

Myth: Drinking coffee can sober you up.
Fact: Coffee may make you feel more alert, but it does nothing to reduce alcohol’s effects on your brain or coordination. Only time allows your body to metabolize alcohol.

Myth: You're okay to drive if you’re not slurring your words or stumbling.
Fact: Alcohol impairs driving skills long before visible signs of intoxication appear. Reaction times slow, judgment deteriorates, and the risk of a crash increases even at low levels of alcohol consumption.

A drunk driving accident lawyer can protect your rights if you've been injured

While the holiday season is a time for celebration, some drivers will still make the reckless choice to drink and get behind the wheel. Despite increased awareness and law enforcement efforts, impaired driving continues to endanger lives every December. For those affected by a drunk driver's poor decision, understanding your legal rights is essential. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages caused by the crash.

The drunk driving accident attorneys at Pajcic & Pajcic in Jacksonville fight to hold negligent drivers accountable and secure maximum compensation for injured motorists. With decades of experience, our case results speak volumes. For instance, in one case, we recovered $3.5 million for a family of three who suffered serious injuries in a crash with a drunk driver who had just left a holiday party.

These cases demand a thorough investigation and strong legal advocacy. Our law firm has the resources to handle every aspect of your claim while you focus on recovery. Best of all, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Don’t let a drunk driver’s recklessness cost you more than it already has. Contact us online or call us today to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you rebuild your life.

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