Big gifts and even bigger feasts – Christmas comes with its fair share of larger-than-live traditions. Millions of Americans use the holiday break to visit family, and according to the Department of Transportation, 91 percent of seasonal travellers make the trek in their personal vehicles.
If you are planning a Christmas road trip, it is important that you plot your journey before you depart. Driving on unfamiliar roads increases the risk of crashing. Also, remember to get your vehicle inspected, pack an emergency kit, and put your cell phone on silent to avoid distracted driving.
Unfortunately, no matter how safe you are behind the wheel, you cannot control the actions of other drivers. Over the Christmas holiday, there is a marked increase in drunk-driving rates across the United States.
Alcohol impairs a person’s decision-making, coordination and response time – all of which are essential for driving safely. If you intend to drive on Christmas, take these three steps to safeguard your family from drunk-driving accidents:
- Stay sober if you plan to drive;
- Have a backup plan in case your designated driver gets drunk; and
- Keep your distance from drivers who appear intoxicated.
If you are injured over the holiday season due to a drunk, distracted or negligent motorist, contact the Truman Law Firm P.C. Ronald W. Truman will evaluate your crash to determine if you have grounds for a claim.
The at-fault driver may be liable for your health-care bills, lost income and other damages. Call 435-986-2222 to schedule a free consultation with an injury attorney in Utah.
Let’s take a closer look at three tips to help you avoid drunk-driving crashes over Christmas:
- Stay Sober If You Plan to Drive
This may seem like a no-brainer, but many people who would never drink and drive choose to make an exception over the holidays. Don’t make this mistake. Stay sober if you intend to get behind the wheel.
- Have a Backup Plan in Case Your Designated Driver Gets Drunk
If your designated driver cannot resist the urge to drink, it is important that you have a backup plan. First, try to convince that person not to drive. Mothers Against Drunk Driving offers an eight-step system to help you dissuade a friend or loved one from driving drunk.
Then, find alternative transportation. Consider using a ride-share company such as Uber, taking public transportation or finding a hotel to stay the night.
- Keep Your Distance from Drivers Who Appear Intoxicated
Watch out for the following signs that another driver is drunk:
- Swerving;
- Drifting onto the shoulder;
- Almost hitting a curb or an object in the road;
- Ignoring road construction signs;
- Abnormal braking and accelerating patterns; and
- Stopping well before or after a stop line.
If a drunk or negligent driver injures you or a family member over the holiday, contact the Truman Law Firm P.C. Ronald W. Truman is an injury attorney in Utah who has been practicing law for more than 25 years. Schedule a free initial consultation today by calling 435-986-2222.
