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During the holidays, people gather together and celebrate out of joy and cheer for the season. It is a time for many to reconnect with their loved ones and families and have a moment for themselves. While having fun, many individuals may choose to consume alcohol to lift their spirits further. This is not a problem in and of itself. In fact, you can safely consume alcohol and have a fantastic time celebrating. However, there is a notable increase of DWI and related collisions over the holiday season.
Cole & Martin Attorneys at Law, LLC wants to help explain the relationship between DWIs and this time of year. We want to ensure you and your loved one’s safety throughout the season.
Exploring the Relationship
There are several reasons for increased DWI occurrences over this time of year. For many, this is when overindulgence is acceptable due to time off of work and fewer commitments. This overindulgence in alcohol can lead to dangerous decisions, such as driving while impaired. Due to an increase in gatherings and parties, this overindulgence might also occur at a higher rate. This may increase the chances of getting behind the wheel while drunk even more, posing threats to others on the road.
While it is true that this is the happiest time of year for some individuals, others experience stress and worry around the holidays based on their situations. Stress and worry may encourage more alcohol consumption. When feeling overwhelmed and under the influence, some individuals may not make sound decisions, such as not driving to another destination or home. These choices can lead to a DWI quickly.
Another factor to consider is that law enforcement teams are aware that individuals consume more alcohol during these times. With this knowledge, officers can more closely monitor roads for impaired drivers, watching out for behaviors such as swerving, riding the rumble strip, or crossing into other lanes.
Don’t Become a Statistic
It is clear that there is a relationship between the DWI increase and the holiday season. However, some statistics help support this.
51% of drunk drivers report that they are more likely to consume more alcohol around the holidays.
Between the start of the holiday season (Thanksgiving) and the end (New Year’s Eve), two to three times more individuals die due to DWI-related accidents.
16% of adults report that they drink more alcohol in general during the holidays.
Through these statistics, you can see the supported relationship between the holiday season and increased DWI-related accidents and arrests. While this is stressful to consider when on the roads during this time of year, there are things you can do to keep yourself and others safe.
How To Stay Safe
In order to avoid becoming part of another holiday DWI-related statistic, you can take several precautions to remain safe on and off the roads.
Practice defensive driving and stay aware of all of your surroundings. By remaining vigilant, you can avoid potential accidents.
When drinking alcohol, remember to always plan for a safe and sober drive home. Consider the different options you have. Ask a friend to be a designated driver or utilize one of the available rideshare apps. Leave your car at a location if necessary, and pick it up when you can safely drive again.
When having guests in your home drinking, provide a safe place for them to spend the night if they are too intoxicated to get home. The arrangements do not have to be extravagant. It is more crucial to keep impaired drivers off the road. You can even take drivers’ keys when they enter the home, placing them somewhere not easily accessed.
Contact Our Experienced Springfield DWI Attorneys
People need to enjoy their holiday season and time with family and friends; however, this should not come at the cost of other individuals’ safety. If you find yourself charged with a DWI during this time, know that Cole & Martin Attorneys at Law, LLC can help clarify your side of the story and right any wrongs.
At Cole & Martin Attorneys at Law, LLC, every case is just as important as the last. To book your free consultation with our experienced DWI lawyers in Springfield, contact our team today by calling (417) 213-5441 or filling out our online form.