Georgia Injury Lawyers Blog
Most American holidays involve alcohol, and Thanksgiving is no exception. In fact, the night before Thanksgiving has earned the nickname “blackout Wednesday,” as it’s a popular night for college students who are back home to go out and catch up with old friends. In additon, when you think of a traditional Thanksgiving holiday, you likely think of a gathering with family and having delicious meal, perhaps followed by watching some football with celebratory drinks. Unfortunately, sometimes, holiday drinks turn into holiday drinking and driving, putting everyone on the road at risk.
In many instances, people who are injured by drunk drivers aredse entitled to compensation under Georgia law. To learn more, call us today to discuss your options with an Atlanta personal injury lawyer.
How alcohol affects your driving ability
Alcohol is a substance that affects brain function,n, impairing thinking, reasoning and muscle coordination. All of these abilities are essential to operating a vehicle safely. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately one-third of all traffic crash fatalities in the United States involve drunk drivers (with BACs of .08 g/dL or higher). However, even a small amount of alcohol can affect one’s driving ability. In 2019, there were 1,775 people killed in alcohol-related crashes where a driver had a BAC of .01 to .07 g/dL.
Consequences of Drinking and Driving
Driving a vehicle while intoxicated is a serious crime. NHTSA reported that in 2018, alcohol-impaired driving contributed to more than 10,500 crash deaths. According to Georgia’s Department of Motor Vehicles, (DMV), in Georgia, it is illegal to drive with a BAC at or above 0.08% or while impaired. Additionally, publicized sobriety checkpoints are allowed, and ignition interlocks are required for convicted repeat offenders. Moreover, once arrested, the DUI charges can lead to a license suspension, or misdemeanor and felony charges that will require jail time. In addition to criminal penalties, a drunk driver can also face civil liability for any injuries they caused.
Driving Safety Tips for Thanksgiving
The Atlanta Car Injury lawyers want to make sure that everyone is safe this Thanksgiving and would like to share some of their safety tips along with the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- Do not drive when you are impaired by alcohol and/or drugs.
- Do not allow your family members or friends to drive while impaired.
- If you drink alcohol, you should designate a sober driver, call a taxi, or use a rideshare service.
Be suspicious of everyone on the road during the holidays, and especially pay attention to the following signs of a potential drunk driver on the road:
- Driving without turning the headlights on.
- Driving at a very low speed.
- Staying too close to the center lane marker.
- Making dangerously wide turns.
- Getting close to hitting another object or car.
- Tailgating.
- Rapidly accelerating.
Call Us Today to Speak with a DUI Accident Lawyer in Atlanta
If you are involved in an accident during the Thanksgiving weekend involving a driver who was alcohol-impaired and/or drug impaired, you should immediately contact our knowledgeable personal injury attorneys at Slappey & Sadd. Please let our experienced legal team help you get the compensation you deserve – call us at 888-474-9616, or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.