During holiday celebrations, there is an increased risk of drunk driving incidents for various reasons, including the combination of festive occasions, social gatherings, and the availability of alcohol, which contributes to the higher rates of impaired driving.
The reality is that holidays not only can contribute to higher risks of impaired driving but do. On average, according to the National Highway Traffic Administration, 25% of car crash fatalities nationwide involve alcohol. However, sadly, during the holidays the number of alcohol-related deadly wrecks rises to an average of almost 33%.
Here, we discuss some of the reasons drunk driving incidents increase over the holiday season.
Common Factors that Elevate the Risk of Drunk Driving Over the Holidays
Raising awareness about the increased risk of drunk driving incidents during holiday celebrations is crucial to promoting safety and preventing accidents.
Some of the most common factors that elevate these risks include, but are not limited to:
- Increased Alcohol Consumption
Holidays often involve social gatherings, parties, and celebrations where alcohol is readily available. The increased consumption of alcohol during these events raises the likelihood of individuals getting behind the wheel while impaired.
- Social Pressure
During holidays, there may be social pressure to partake in festivities, including consuming alcohol. This pressure can lead individuals to make poor decisions, like driving under the influence, to fit in with the celebratory atmosphere.
- Extended Celebrations
Holidays often extend over several days, creating more opportunities for people to engage in celebratory activities that involve alcohol. Extended celebrations may contribute to fatigue, impairment, and an increased risk of drunk driving incidents.
- Lack of Planning
Individuals may fail to plan for alternative transportation methods when attending holiday events where alcohol is served. This lack of planning increases the likelihood of someone choosing to drive under the influence rather than seeking a safe ride home.
- Emotional Stress
Holidays can be emotionally charged for various reasons, including family dynamics, financial stress, or loneliness. Emotional stress may lead some individuals to use alcohol as a coping mechanism, which can, in turn, contribute to impaired driving.
- Increased Traffic
Holiday periods often experience higher volumes of traffic as people travel to visit family and friends or participate in special events. The combination of increased traffic and impaired drivers heightens the risk of accidents.
- Younger Drivers
Younger individuals, particularly those of legal drinking age but with less experience in managing alcohol consumption, may be at an increased risk of engaging in drunk driving during holiday celebrations.
- Overconsumption of Alcohol at Home
In addition to attending public events, individuals may engage in private celebrations at home, where they may overconsume alcohol. Driving after excessive alcohol consumption at home poses a severe risk.
- Influence of Prescription Medications
Some people may be using prescription medications that interact with alcohol, leading to impairment. During holidays, people may be less vigilant about the potential consequences of mixing medications and alcohol.
- Limited Public Transportation Options
In some areas of Texas, the limited availability of public transportation can contribute to a higher likelihood of individuals choosing to drive under the influence.
To mitigate the increased risk of drunk driving incidents during holiday celebrations, it is essential to promote responsible drinking, encourage the use of designated drivers or alternative transportation, and raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving.
Contact our Personal Injury Attorney at Glen Larson Law Injury Attorneys
We hope everyone has a happy and safe holiday season. y. If your holidays are negatively impacted by drunk driving, call our skilled personal injury attorney Austin at (512) 883-0277 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation.
We pursue dedicated, driven results for our clients, and there is never a charge to talk to an attorney. We stand ready to help you.
