The holiday season is a magical time of year, filled with traditions and cherished memories. From decorating the tree to baking cookies, there’s always something to look forward to in December. However, amidst all the festivities, it’s essential to remember that incidents related to driving increase during this time of year. Thousands of people are killed or injured every year as a result of drunk driving accidents, making it crucial to stay alert and aware on the roads. December is Impaired Driving Prevention Month, which serves as an important reminder to all of us to drive safely and responsibly, especially during the holiday season. So before you head out to celebrate with friends and family, plan ahead and never drink and drive.
Impaired Driving Prevention Month
As we enter December, it is essential to recognize that this month has been deemed Impaired Driving Prevention Month. This month, being especially vigilant while on the road is crucial. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that December is one of the deadliest months for drivers due to drunk driving accidents. Shockingly, 28 people a day, or approximately one person every 52 minutes, are killed in the U.S. as a result of drinking and driving, resulting in over 10,000 lives lost each year. It is crucial to remember that even a few drinks can significantly impair our ability to make safe driving decisions. Let’s all do our part to prevent these tragedies and ensure the safety of ourselves and others on the road. and others safe on the road.
Support When Tragedy Strikes
However, despite our efforts, accidents still happen, and impaired drivers often cause the loss of lives. During such tragic times, contacting trustworthy attorneys who can assist you throughout the legal process becomes essential. At Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault, our wrongful death attorneys can guide you through the legal system and advocate on your behalf.
Impaired driving is a Serious Danger
Understanding impaired driving and its dangers is essential. Impaired driving involves operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other substances that affect the driver’s ability to drive. These substances can slow reaction time, impair vision, and hinder safe driving decision-making, resulting in accidents and injuries. Impaired drivers also have a higher tendency to violate traffic laws, such as running red lights or stop signs, driving too fast, or using the wrong lane. These factors significantly increase the risk of accidents and fatalities.
Impaired Driving Prevention: Increased risk during the holidays
During the holiday season, the risk of impaired driving increases. People often include alcohol in their holiday celebrations and may underestimate their level of intoxication. Moreover, individuals might be more prone to drinking and driving late at night when tired or encountering less traffic on the road. Therefore, planning and making arrangements for safe transportation, like having a designated driver or utilizing public transportation and ride-sharing services, becomes crucial.
The Number of Impaired Driving Fatalities During December 2022
Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveals that drunk driving caused around 28% of all traffic-related deaths in the United States in 2022. This means that out of the 33,244 traffic deaths that occurred that year, more than 9,000 were a result of drunk driving. This statistic alone underscores the severity of the issue and highlights the continuous need to raise awareness.
The Scope of the Problem in Ohio and Michigan
Alcohol-Related Crashes and Fatalities
In 2020, Ohio recorded a total of 9,711 alcohol-related crashes, resulting in 383 fatalities and 5,033 injuries. These numbers represent a slight increase from the previous year. Additionally, Ohio has consistently ranked among the top 5 states with the highest number of DUI-related fatalities over the past decade. In 2019, the state recorded 414 alcohol-impaired driving fatalities, representing a 5% increase from the previous year.
Michigan’s Alcohol and Drug-Related Incidents
According to the Michigan State Police Criminal Justice Information Center, there were 9,768 alcohol-involved crashes in 2020 alone, resulting in 322 fatalities. The data shows that such incidents accounted for 7.2% of all crashes and 30.6% of all traffic fatalities. Additionally, there were 3,557 drug-involved crashes in Michigan in 2020, leading to 273 fatalities, which accounted for 2.6% of all crashes and 20.9% of traffic fatalities.
The Consequences of Driving Impaired
Impaired drivers not only risk their own lives when they get behind the wheel but also pose a severe risk to others. While crashes involving an intoxicated driver may not always result in a fatality, many do lead to severe injuries. According to the National Safety Council, drunk driving is the leading cause of car accident injury and wrongful death. Additionally, thousands of accident victims suffer lifelong injuries and disabilities that affect their ability to work, live, and enjoy life.
The Leading Cause of Car Accident Injury and Wrongful Death
Impaired driving is the leading cause of car accidents, resulting in injury and wrongful death. The effects of drunk driving are severe and can have catastrophic consequences. These accidents commonly cause injuries to the head, neck, and spinal cord, leading to brain damage, paralysis, and other debilitating conditions. Victims and their families often face overwhelming emotional and financial tolls. The cost of medical care, recovery, and lost wages can result in a lifetime of emotional struggles. If an impaired driver causes a death, the emotional impact on the family is immeasurable. Coping with the loss of a loved one and the associated financial burden adds to the already devastating situation. It is crucial to recognize the significant consequences of impaired driving and take measures to prevent such tragedies.
The Social and Economic Costs
Impaired driving imposes considerable social and economic costs. The economic costs of impaired driving are staggering – the NHTSA estimates that society loses $280 billion per year in lost wages, medical expenses, and property damage due to alcohol-impaired driving. Moreover, impaired driving can result in lifelong consequences, including trauma, disability, and legal repercussions.
Avoiding Accidents
With December Impaired Driving Prevention Month in full swing, it’s crucial to remember that every action or inaction on the road carries consequences.
So, how can you avoid accidents? The first step involves never drinking and driving. If you plan to attend a party, ensure you have a designated driver or use public transportation. Another option is to stay overnight at the party location, if possible. If you notice someone impaired attempting to drive, take their keys away and offer them a ride or a place to sleep. Remember, if you host a party, please ensure that your guests don’t drive while intoxicated.
GT&B: Advocating for impaired driving accident victims
During the holiday season, it’s important to remember the potential hazards that come with it and take necessary measures to prevent impaired driving. One of the most significant dangers is impaired driving, which can lead to accidents despite our efforts. If you or someone you know becomes a victim of an impaired driving accident, it is crucial to seek legal representation from experienced personal injury lawyers who can help navigate the legal process. At Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault law firm, we understand the importance of advocating for impaired driving accident victims and ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve. Contact us today at 419-843-6663 or through our convenient online form. We proudly serve clients in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan.
With a local personal injury attorney near you, help is just a phone call away.
