Drunk Driving Accidents on Thanksgiving & How to Avoid Them

As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s a time to gather with family, enjoy good food, and often raise a glass in celebration. But as we celebrate, we must keep in mind the unfortunate trends that come alongside the busiest season of the year: increased holiday drunk driving accidents.

The National Safety Council (NSC) projects that up to 507 people may die on U.S. roads this Thanksgiving holiday. Alarmingly, around 36% of these fatalities involve an alcohol-impaired driver.

With more vehicles on the road during heightened festivities, the risk is clear—Thanksgiving weekend is one of the most dangerous times for alcohol-related accidents.

The Dangers of Holiday Travel

1. Thanksgiving Eve: “Blackout Wednesday”

The night before Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the Holiday DUI season, known as “Blackout Wednesday”, and is notorious for high rates of drinking as friends and family reunite.

The revelry often leads to excessive alcohol consumption and a surge in Thanksgiving Eve drunk driving incidents. Law enforcement across the country braces for this night as it sees one of the year’s highest peaks in DUI arrests and accidents.

2. Heavy Holiday Traffic: More Drivers, More Risks

The sheer number of people traveling adds to the risks: the American Automobile Association (AAA) estimates that over 55.4 million Americans will drive long distances for Thanksgiving this year. More cars on the road mean more traffic and congestion, which increases the risk of accidents—even before considering the rise in DUIs.

3. Winter Weather Hazards: Poor Conditions Increase Accident Risks

Poor weather is yet another factor that makes Thanksgiving travel hazardous. For much of the country, including places like Ohio, late fall and winter bring dark, wet, and icy conditions. Combine this with crowded roads or impaired drivers, and the likelihood of collisions increases dramatically.

Staying Safe While Visiting Loved Ones: Tips for Safe Thanksgiving Travels

There are a number of ways you can stay safe this holiday season. For starters, practice safe and defensive driving by buckling your seatbelt, driving defensively, and obeying all the rules of the road.

Plan Ahead to Avoid Drunk Driving

1. Use a Designated Driver: If you’re planning to drink, designate a sober driver in advance or use a rideshare service.
2. Recognize Drunk Driving Behavior: If you’re on the road, be alert for impaired drivers. Warning signs include:
   • Wide or abrupt turns
   • Swerving or drifting out of lanes
   • Delayed response to signals
   • Driving without headlights at night
3. Report Impaired Drivers: If it is safe to do so, contact authorities if you notice a driver exhibiting dangerous behavior.

Safe Driving Tips for the Holiday Season

If you see a driver exhibiting one of these behaviors, stay away from them as well as you can. If you or a passenger can safely and legally call the police, report the drunk or impaired driver so they will stop endangering themselves and others.

Remember, always buckle up, follow speed limits, and be extra cautious of weather conditions to protect yourself and others on the road!

What To Do If You’re In a Drunk Driving Accident This Thanksgiving

If you or a loved one are involved in a drunk driving accident this Thanksgiving, having a reliable legal team can make all the difference. The impact of an accident is challenging enough without additional stress over medical bills or insurance claims. A dedicated drunk driving accident lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve.

Consult With An Experienced Drunk Driving Attorney in Ohio

At Rinehardt Injury Attorneys, our experienced car accident lawyers are well-versed in handling cases involving impaired drivers. Whether your case involves a car accident, motorcycle accident, or truck accident, we have the knowledge and experience to hold those responsible for your injuries accountable and get the justice you deserve.

Contact us online for a free legal consultation or come by one of our Columbus or Mansfield offices to learn how we can help you during this holiday season. From everyone at Rinehardt Injury Attorneys, we wish you all a safe and happy Thanksgiving–and remember, don’t drink and drive!