New Year’s Eve is one of the most festive nights of the year, bringing about joyous celebrations and good tidings for the year to come. However, it’s also one of the most dangerous times to be on the road. With parties, alcohol use, distracted driving, and late-night travel, accident risks spike dramatically. Washington, D.C. drivers should understand the hazards, know their legal rights, and take steps to keep themselves and others safe. For information on how dangerous driving can be on New Year’s Eve and to secure the help of a skilled attorney, continue reading and contact a Washington, D.C. auto accident lawyer today.
How Dangerous is Driving on New Year’s Eve?
Driving during the holiday season is generally more dangerous than driving at other times of the year. New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day consistently rank among the most deadly drunk driving accident days of the year. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration) reports thousands of alcohol-related deaths nationwide annually, with a notable increase during holiday periods. But it’s not just drunk driving that causes crashes.
New Year’s Eve in particular results in riskier roads, due to many factors, including:
- Higher rates of drug and alcohol use
- Increased number of vehicles and pedestrians, especially late at night
- Fatigue from late-night driving
- Winter weather risks, like ice, snow, and limited visibility
- Distracted driving
Late evening through early morning is typically the most dangerous time to be on the road. The National Safety Council reported over 400 New Year’s Day deaths in 2022. Avoiding these hazards is crucial for staying safe.
What Can I Do to Stay Safe This New Year’s?
Because of the increased risk of accidents, injuries, and death, it is imperative that you take precautions to remain safe this holiday season. Consider the following tips.
- Avoid late-night travel and stay overnight if possible
- Do not drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol: set up a designated driver ahead of time or use rideshare apps
- Stick to well-lit roads and avoid high-traffic areas
- Use your seatbelt, blinkers, and any other safety features while driving
- Avoid distractions and follow the rules of the road
On New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, you should expect the unexpected. Your health and safety are of the utmost priority, so take extra precautions during this time. If you are injured in a New Year’s Eve crash in Washington, D.C., it is important that you take action to protect your legal rights. You have 3 years to file a personal injury claim or lawsuit to recover compensation for your damages.
For more information and to secure the help of a legal professional, reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney today.