With the holidays upon us, motorists need to remain alert while navigating the roadways as this joyous time is also one of the most dangerous times to be on the road. If you must brave the roads during this time of year, take extra precautions to mitigate the risks of a collision. Unfortunately, due to inclement weather and drunk drivers, there is a higher chance of being involved in an accident on New Year’s Eve. Please continue reading to learn what you can do to stay safe and why connecting with a determined New York City Auto Accidents Attorney is in your best interest.
How Dangerous is Driving on New Year’s Eve?
New Year’s Eve is one of the most dangerous nights for driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the likelihood of being in a fatal crash at night is three times higher than during the day. This holiday is celebrated at night, thus there will be more people on the roads attending celebrations with friends and family. Nighttime driving is dangerous, largely because motorists are fatigued and sometimes impaired by alcohol or drugs.
In addition, New Year’s occurs during the winter, meaning inclement weather can contribute to the rise of crashes. Heavy snow, sleet, icy roads, and poor visibility can all make driving much more challenging during this holiday. Drivers must take extra precautions and adjust their driving to account for these treacherous conditions to avoid accidents.
What Should I Do if I’m Hit By a Drunk Driver?
In the unfortunate event that you are struck by a drunk driver, it’s important to understand the steps you must take to ensure your health and safeguard your legal rights. The first thing you should do is call 911 to report the crash and request emergency medical services to the scene. Even if you feel fine, it’s in your best interest to be examined by a medical professional as some injuries are not immediately apparent or have delayed symptoms. After you receive medical treatment, it’s important to hang onto records regarding the extent of your injuries.
Before the police arrive, you should take note of the other driver’s behavior. If something seems off, you should relay that information to law enforcement. Upon arrival, the police can test the driver for alcohol impairment. If the police determine the motorist is over the legal limit, they will be placed under arrest and write a report detailing the facts of the incident.
If circumstances permit, you should take pictures of any damage caused by the accident, including your injuries and the vehicles involved. It’s also beneficial to collect contact information from anyone who saw the accident as they may be able to corroborate your claim at a later date. Furthermore, it’s in your best interest to enlist the help of an experienced attorney who can help you gather evidence and fight for the maximum compensation to which you are entitled.
At Swerling Law, we are prepared to represent your interests and fight for the best possible outcome on your behalf. Connect with our firm today to discuss your case and what we can do for you.
