CHICAGO, IL – New Year’s Eve is a time for celebration, reflection and excitement as people around the world ring in a new year with parties, fireworks and festive gatherings. However, it’s also one of the most dangerous nights on the road, as alcohol consumption increases significantly. Drunk driving accidents spike on this holiday, and the consequences can be devastating. Whether you’re planning to attend a New Year’s Eve party, host one, or simply be out on the town, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself and others from the dangers of drunk driving.
The Risks of Drunk Driving on New Year’s Eve
The statistics around drunk driving on New Year’s Eve are alarming. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), New Year’s Eve consistently ranks as one of the deadliest days of the year on U.S. roads. The combination of alcohol, fatigue and distracted driving contributes to an increase in accidents, injuries and fatalities.
From 2017 to 2021, nearly 300 people died in drunk driving crashes on New Year’s Eve in the U.S. alone. Alcohol impairs judgment, reaction times, and coordination, making it incredibly dangerous for anyone to get behind the wheel while intoxicated. Despite widespread awareness of the risks, many people continue to drive while impaired, putting themselves and others at risk.
Steps to Protect Yourself on New Year’s Eve
Plan Ahead for Safe Transportation:
One of the most effective ways to protect yourself from drunk driving accidents is to plan ahead for a safe way to get home before you start drinking. Here are a few options:
- Designated Driver: If you’re planning to drink, designate a sober driver before the festivities begin. Make sure the driver is someone you trust and that they are prepared to stay sober for the duration of the night. Make arrangements for the driver to stay at your home or have a place to sleep to avoid them getting behind the wheel while tired.
- Ride-Sharing Services: Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, especially on high-demand nights like New Year’s Eve. They provide a safe and convenient alternative to driving. Download the app in advance, set up your payment information and be prepared to use it if needed.
- Public Transportation or Taxis: Many cities have increased public transit services or temporary taxis available to ensure safe travel during peak times like New Year’s Eve. Check your city’s transportation schedule ahead of time, and plan accordingly.
- Stay Where You Are: If you’ve been drinking and are far from home, consider staying at the party venue, a friend’s house, or a nearby hotel. It may be more convenient, and safer, to spend the night where you are rather than risk getting behind the wheel.
Avoid Driving If You Feel Impaired:
Even if you don’t think you’ve had enough alcohol to be considered drunk, it’s important to listen to your body and assess how you feel. Alcohol can impair your reaction times and judgment even in small amounts, and it can take longer for some people to sober up than they think. If you feel even the slightest bit impaired, don’t get in the car. Call a ride-sharing service or a friend for help, and take the extra step to ensure your safety.
Watch for Drunk Drivers on the Road:
If you’re driving on New Year’s Eve or even just traveling by foot or bike, stay alert to the increased risk of encountering drunk drivers. Always be extra cautious when you’re on the road:
- Use Defensive Driving: Keep your distance from vehicles that are swerving or driving erratically. Be prepared to stop or take evasive action if necessary.
- Stay in Well-Lit Areas: If you’re walking or biking, stay in well-lit areas and avoid jaywalking or crossing roads at unsupervised intersections. Drunk drivers may not be able to stop in time if they approach you unexpectedly.
- Look for Warning Signs: Signs of a drunk driver include erratic braking, swerving between lanes, driving too fast or too slowly, and running stop signs or red lights. If you see someone driving suspiciously, it’s best to stay away and contact local authorities.
Be Responsible if You’re Hosting a Party:
If you’re hosting a New Year’s Eve celebration, there are steps you can take to help ensure the safety of your guests:
- Serve Alcohol Responsibly: Offer non-alcoholic drink options alongside alcoholic ones and encourage moderation. Keep an eye on how much your guests are drinking and provide food to help absorb the alcohol.
- Arrange Safe Transportation: Be prepared to help your guests get home safely. Keep a list of local taxi services or ride-sharing options available and offer to help arrange rides for anyone who may be too impaired to drive.
- Don’t Let Guests Drive Impaired: If a guest appears too intoxicated to drive, offer them a place to stay or help them find another way home. Don’t hesitate to take their keys and make alternate arrangements.
Know the Legal Consequences of Drunk Driving:
In addition to the physical harm that can occur, there are serious legal consequences for drunk driving. Being caught driving under the influence can lead to fines, license suspension and even imprisonment. The penalties increase if a drunk driver causes an accident that results in injury or death.
If you’re involved in a drunk driving accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other damages. It’s important to understand your legal rights if you or someone you love is affected by a drunk driving incident.
Contact a Chicago Lawyer
While New Year’s Eve is a time for celebration, it’s also a time to take extra precautions on the road. The dangers of drunk driving are real, but with a little planning and awareness, you can significantly reduce the risks. Always plan for a safe way home, whether it’s through a designated driver, a ride-sharing service or public transportation. Stay alert on the roads, and remember that your safety — and the safety of others — is the most important thing to celebrate this holiday season.
If you find yourself in an accident due to a drunk driver, it’s important to call 911 immediately for help. Then, you should contact a personal injury or wrongful death attorney in Chicago, Illinois. At the Dinizulu Law Group, our skilled lawyers are here for you. Contact us today at (312) 384-1920 for a free consultation.
