The Holidays Can Be Disrupted by a Drunk Driver

 Posted on December 23, 2023 in Drunk Driving Accidents

During the holidays, many people like to enjoy a drink with friends and family. Giving us a chance to unwind, we may not think too much about having a beer or two before getting in our cars to drive home.

Many people do not realize what effect a few drinks may have on our motor and neurological capabilities. In fact, a 140-pound man who has just three drinks in a one-hour period may be at the legal blood alcohol limit of 0.08 percent.

If you have been injured by a drunk driver, our Waukegan drunk driving accident attorneys are here to help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Holiday DUI Statistics

It is easy for people to lose count of how many alcoholic beverages they have consumed, resulting in devastating consequences for themselves and others.

The statistics are startling:

• In a recent year, 11,654 people were killed in drunk driving crashes, with 209 of these deaths occurring during the holidays 
• Each Thanksgiving, 35% of traffic fatalities can be attributed to a drunk driver 
• Christmas and New Year’s Eve are considered the most dangerous times to be on the road
• In 2022, roughly 750 people died in car crashes between December 25th and January 1st

Compensatory Damages

Not all injuries are physical. Some injuries can be emotional, and others may impact our financial security.

Damages are intended to make an injured party “whole” again. If you have been hit by an intoxicated driver, you may be eligible to receive compensatory damages, which may be either economic and/or noneconomic.

Economic damages are those losses that have a financial component and can be easily calculated. Economic damages may include:

• Lost wages
• Lost earning potential
• Medical bills
• Prescription costs
• Vehicle repairs

In comparison, noneconomic damages are intangible losses that impact our quality of life. Noneconomic damages may include:

• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Loss of consortium
• Intentional infliction of emotional distress
• Scarring and/or disfigurement

Do Not Ride with an Impaired Driver

While you may be concerned about your risk of being hit by a drunk driver, you will also want to take the necessary measures to avoid riding with an inebriated driver.

If alcohol is being served at a holiday gathering, do not get into a car with someone who has been drinking. It is best to arrange for alternative transportation or to name someone who will be the designated driver. The designated driver will vow to stay sober to transport everyone home safely.

Even if you take all necessary measures, your risk of being hit by a drunk driver rises during the holidays. By retaining the services of a Lake County drunk driving accident attorney, you are increasing your chances of receiving appropriate compensation for your losses.

Injured by a Drunk Driver? Speak with a Waukegan, IL, Drunk Driving Accident Attorney 

Drunk driving accidents are notorious for increasing during the holiday season. If you have sustained injuries due to a drunk driver, you need a Lake County, IL, drunk driving accident attorney who can speak on your behalf with insurance. Contact Salvi & Maher, LLP today online or by phone at 847-662-3303 to schedule your free consultation.