December is National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month

drunk and drugged driving prevention month

December is always a busy time of year. People are getting ready for the holidays and the year is coming to a close. Goldstein and Bashner would like to take this time, to raise awareness about the consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. During the holiday season, drunk and impaired driving accidents are most prevalent. Drug and alcohol use impair judgment, delay reaction times, and can result in deadly consequences when driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drugs are involved in about 18% of national motor vehicle driver deaths while drunk-driving accidents account for 31%. Each year thousands of drivers and passengers lose their lives because of the poor choice to drive drunk, or take drugs and drive impaired.

Most people would never imagine that their holiday celebration could result in a fatality or imprisonment, but the risks associated with driving while impaired are very real and can result in tragic consequences for everyone involved.

Here are a few simple tips for celebrating and driving safely this holiday season:

• Designate a non-drinking driver ahead of time.

• If drinking alcohol at a party or other celebration, allow at least one hour between drinks. It takes one hour to get rid of one drink from your body (1 drink is equal to a 12-oz beer, 5- oz glass of wine, or 1½-oz shot of liquor).

• Set limits beforehand of the number of drinks to have and stick with it.

• Alternate drinking alcoholic beverages with soda, juice or water and eat food.

• Don’t mix alcohol with other drugs, including over-the-counter and prescription medications.

• Don’t ride with someone who is impaired. Use other means of transportation such as a taxi, public transportation or driver who is sober.

• Pay close attention to drug warnings on medications. If you think there is even a chance of having a side effect that will affect your driving, do not drive.

If you or someone in your family has been the victim of an accident involving a drugged driver, or a drunk driver we can help. Our compassionate lawyers will listen to you and provide legal guidance, with no fee or obligation. Call us today at: 1-888-NYLAW12. If you are hesitant and unsure if you should proceed, download our free guide: What You Need to Know Before You Hire A Lawyer.

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