The odds of getting into a driving accident increase during periods when there are more cars on the road, or when driving conditions are less than optimal. But when the number of alcohol impaired drivers increases, the odds skyrocket. Want to learn more about impaired driving take our class. New Years Eve 2018 is almost upon us and here are some sobering thoughts!
With an average of 140 deaths (based on statistics from 2002 to 2008), New Year’s Day is the second most deadly day for drivers, according to Anne Fleming of the Insurance Institute For Highway Safety.
Pedestrians are at an elevated risk on these days as well, perhaps due to alcohol consumption and/or inclement weather.
The New Year’s Holiday (includes the holiday weekend surrounding New Year’s Eve)
2010: 143 people killed (48 percent of highway deaths)
2009: 185 people killed (40 percent of highway deaths)
2008: 175 people killed (41 percent of highway deaths)
In addition, New Year’s Day is especially dangerous, with 57 percent of all traffic fatalities involving a drunk driver in 2010.
During the New Year’s period, between 2007 and 2011, an estimated 42% of traffic fatalities were the result of drinking and driving. On Christmas, just 35% of accidents were the result of drinking and driving, less than any of the major six holidays. Winter weather also plays a role in holiday accidents. Believe it or not when we have severe winter weather the number goes down because people are less likely to travel.
Some things you can do to make sure you stay safe:
Get a designated Driver: When going out in a group always pick someone who will abstain from drinking
Call a cab if you are tipsy or drunk! Any BAC over .08 is considered Drunk Driving and you WILL get a DWI
If a friend or family member appears to be impaired, take their keys away! You’d rather have them angry and safe then dead or behind bars!
Individuals should call the police if they see an impaired driver out on the road.
So when going out this New Years DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE! Make it to next year and don’t become a statistic. As always, Drive Safe!