The Ultimate Guide to Avoiding Holiday DUIs
The holidays are the time of year when the most DUI accidents happen. While anyone can be an innocent victim of a drunk driver, avoiding a DUI crash is much easier if you take certain precautions.
- Never get behind the wheel after drinking. Too many drunk drivers were convinced that they were fine before they got behind the wheel, only to cause a serious accident later. It is nearly impossible for anyone to objectively judge their own sobriety. If you do not have access to a reliable breath test machine, as most people do not, your best bet is to avoid driving at all if you have been drinking, even if you believe the amount you have consumed is very small or if you do not “feel drunk.” Instead, rely on a sober designated driver.
- Never allow a drunk person to drive you. If you cannot tell how intoxicated you are, it will be even harder to tell how drunk someone else is. Instead of choosing the most sober person to drive, have one friend agree not to drink at all and remain the designated driver. This is the only safe way to transport yourself and your friends if your group is all enjoying a drink at the party.
- Avoid travel during peak DUI times. Nights, especially after 11:00 p.m., holidays, and weekends are the primary times that people drink and drive. If you can avoid travel at those times, do so.
- Pay attention when you are biking or walking. A large percentage of DUI crashes involve pedestrians and bicyclists. Be sure that you avoid well-traveled areas whenever possible; stick to bike lanes or sidewalks. Be aware of your surroundings and immediately yield to anyone who appears to be driving erratically. Wear reflective clothing if you walk or bike at night; better still, avoid walking or biking during nighttime hours.
- Help your friends avoid DUI. If you are hosting a party, be sure to collect car keys and only distribute them to sober drivers. If necessary, provide accommodation for your guests who have imbibed or call a cab to take them home.
If you are injured in an accident involving a drunk driver, be sure to contact Daniel M. Gilleon, a personal injury attorney in San Diego, for help. With years of experience, Mr. Gilleon can review your case and advise you on the best way to collect compensation for your injuries.
