The holiday season, a time for celebration, also brings heightened risks for drivers. If you are traveling by car, extra safety precautions are crucial to reduce accident potential. New Year’s Eve, in particular, poses a significant risk due to factors like more drivers on the road and impaired driving. Learn essential safety tips and understand why consulting our dedicated Manatee County Car Accident Lawyers is beneficial if you are involved in a collision.
Why is New Year’s Eve One of the Most Dangerous Nights to Drive in Florida?
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), compared to an average night on the weekend, there can be 71% more crashes involving alcohol or drugs between December 31st and January 1st. New Year’s Eve presents a unique confluence of factors that dramatically increase the dangers of driving:
- Impaired Driving: New Year’s celebrations often involve alcohol, leading to a regrettable rise in impaired individuals getting behind the wheel. Many people fail to arrange for sober transportation, putting themselves and others at great risk.
- Increased Travel Volume: The holiday season as a whole sees a surge in travel, with driving being the riskiest mode of transportation. This risk is compounded during late-night hours.
- Adverse Nighttime Conditions: Driving at night is inherently more dangerous than driving during the day. When combined with the heightened number of impaired drivers, the night of New Year’s Eve becomes an exceptionally hazardous time on the road.
What Steps Should I Take After an Accident with a Drunk Driver?
If you have been involved in a car accident with an impaired driver, knowing the correct actions to take is crucial for both your well-being and protecting your legal standing. First and foremost, you should call 011 to report the accident and request emergency medical services. It’s vital to be examined by a medical professional, even if you initially feel fine, as some injuries have delayed symptoms or may not be immediately obvious. You should keep detailed records of all medical care you receive and the full extent of your damages.
Before law enforcement arrives at the accident scene, you must pay close attention to the other behavior. If you suspect impairment, share this information with the responding officer. The police will assess the other driver for alcohol impairment. If they are found over the legal limit, they will be taken into custody, and a detailed accident report will be filed.
If you are physically able, document the scene by taking photographs of all accident-related damage, including the vehicles involved and any visible injuries. Additionally, obtain contact details from any witnesses to the accident. Their statements can be valuable in supporting your claim later on, potentially corroborating your version of the events.
If you or a loved one has been struck by a drunk driver this New Year’s Eve, it’s highly recommended to seek the assistance of an experienced attorney. At Becker & Lindauer, LLC, we can guide you through the process of gathering evidence and advocating for the maximum compensation you are entitled to.
