Two of the biggest celebrations of the year occur in December – Christmas and New Years Eve. These events by themselves also lead to many impaired drivers, due to increased alcohol consumption. An increase in impaired driving can and does lead to an increase in accidents every year. This time of year is dangerous because of the increase in impaired driving.

The organization Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) has partnered with law enforcement all over the country to create awareness for the increase in impaired driving, naming December as National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. This is an important designation because it gets the word out that impaired drivers are on the road with increasing frequency during this month due to the holiday season.

However, partnering with local law enforcement to get the word out is not the only thing this month is about. It is also about ensuring that people are being safe themselves when celebrating the holidays. The post detailing the recognition of this month also details things that people can do to stay safe. It discusses providing safe, non-alcoholic drinking options if you are hosting a party, or if you are going to a party, use public transit where available, or take an Uber, or use another ride-sharing app.

Impaired driving is a dangerous action that can seriously injure or kill others. During this time of year, impaired driving causes serious injuries and death at a much higher rate than at other times throughout the year. These accidents caused by impaired driving can hurt families if they lose a loved one, or can seriously impair someone’s ability to do their job moving forward.

According to data posted on MADD’s website, these two days alone contribute to roughly half of the drunk driving crashes in the month of December alone in any given year. This is a startling thing to see, and it must be addressed, not only by law enforcement, but also by those who go to celebrations. It is very important that everyone does their part to limit these accidents.

The easiest way to limit these accidents is to not drink and drive. It is important that we all do our part to be safe this holiday season and avoid these accidents that could have dire consequences. Someone could be missing a loved one at the table when they are celebrating a holiday because of an impaired driver. Use a ride-share app, or take public transit. If you are hosting a party, make sure that no one leaves your party too impaired to drive. Offer non-alcoholic beverages, or offer to pay for a taxi or an Uber.

Being safe this holiday season is important, and driving impaired cannot only harm others, but it can also harm yourself. Be smart and safe during this festive time of year.

If you have been injured by a drunk or impaired driver Contact Us at 317-636-0808. We will protect you and your family.