This is the time when roadways get extremely dangerous. With holiday gatherings and company Christmas parties, driving under the influence is at an all time high during this time of the year. According to the California Highway Patrol’s data from the San Joaquin Valley offices, there were 162 DUI arrests over the five-day Thanksgiving period. These numbers show that many are still making poor choices during the holidays.
Driving while impaired has the potential to cause terrible tragedies. Despite law enforcement agencies’ best efforts to increase DUI patrols and sobriety checkpoints during the holidays, driving under the influence remains a significant problem. So, how can you avoid becoming another DUI statistic?
Here are a few tips to help you whether you are attending a holiday party or hosting one.
- Don’t drink and drive. The best way to avoid impaired driving is not to drink if you plan to drive. If you are going to drink, don’t drive.
- Utilize a designated driver. Designate a trusted friend or a family member who can drive you home safely. Make sure your designated driver doesn’t have anything to drink.
- Call a cab or rideshare service. If your plans go awry and you are without a designated driver, call a cab or a rideshare service. It is best to avoid public transportation because walking while impaired can also be dangerous. So, keep cab service numbers handy on your cell phone or download rideshare apps that can have someone at your host’s door within a moment’s notice. If you are too impaired, make arrangements with your host to stay the night and leave in the morning when you are sober.
- Stop drunk friends. If you see a friend who has had too much to drink, don’t hesitate to ask them how they plan on getting home. Doing so might help save your friend’s life or someone else’s life out on the road. Do not allow a drunk, dangerous driver to get on the road.
- Be a smart host. If you are hosting a party, be sure to serve plenty of food along with drinks. Stop serving drinks earlier on during the party. Serve desserts and mocktails instead.
If you drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, you not only face jail time, fines, and other consequences but you can also be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses you cause. If a drunk driver has injured you, contact an experienced California DUI victims’ lawyer who will fight to protect your rights.
