Drunk driving is a primary cause of serious accidents throughout the year, but alcohol-related crashes are particularly common over holiday breaks such as Memorial Day weekend. In 2010, more than 390 people lost their lives in traffic accidents over the Memorial Day holiday period—and drunk driving contributed to nearly 40 percent of those deaths.
No matter how responsible you are behind the wheel, all it takes is one intoxicated motorist to cause a tragedy. Fortunately, you can reduce your risk by following these three tips
- Look out for signs that other drivers are drunk;
- If your plans involve drinking, use a taxi or a rideshare service; and
- Stay off the road at peak drunk driving hours.
If the worst happens and you suffer an injury in a collision with a drunk driver, contact the Truman Law Firm P.C. Ronald W. Truman will evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a personal injury claim. Call 435-986-2222 to schedule a free consultation with an accident attorney in Utah.
Let’s take a closer look at a few strategies to help you avoid drunk driving collisions over Memorial Day weekend:
- Look out for Signs That Other Drivers Are Drunk
Utah has one of the lowest alcohol-related crash rates in the country, but drunk driving still happens. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 469 people in Utah died in drunk driving crashes between 2003 and 2012.
The easiest way to avoid these collisions is not to drink and drive; unfortunately, you cannot control the actions of other motorists. Keep your distance from drivers who show one or more of the following signs of inebriation:
- Drifting or swerving;
- Almost hitting an object in the road;
- Stopping after or well before a stop line;
- Not using the turn signal or using the wrong turn signal;
- Not turning on the headlights while driving at night;
- Speeding;
- Tailgating; or
- Showing abnormal braking patterns.
- If Your Plans Involve Drinking, Use a Taxi or a Rideshare Service
The cost of a taxi or an Uber is far cheaper than DUI fines. Before the festivities begin, download Uber and set up your account, or write down the phone numbers of local taxi companies.
- Stay off the Road at Peak Drunk Driving Hours
According to BACtrack, you are more likely to encounter a drunk motorist between midnight and 3 a.m. than at any other time interval of the day. Do your best to avoid the road during these hours.
Unfortunately, no matter how responsible you are over Memorial Day weekend, nobody is immune to collisions. If you are injured by a drunk, distracted, or negligent motorist, contact the Truman Law Firm P.C.
Ronald W. Truman has been practicing law for more than 25 years, and he will help you fight for the maximum payout. Call 435-986-2222 to arrange a free consultation with a drunk driving accident attorney in Utah.
