The Fourth of July is an exciting holiday as it celebrates the birth of our nation. Despite the excitement surrounding this holiday, individuals usually overlook the potential risks that come with it. Sadly, many individuals are injured and even lose their lives due to drunk driving accidents. Being injured in a drunk driving accident is traumatic and overwhelming. If you have been injured in a drunk driving accident during the Fourth of July holiday, contact a trusted New York City Car Accident Attorney who can help you navigate your legal options and secure the fair compensation you deserve. In addition, please continue reading to learn why driving on this holiday is so dangerous.
What makes the Fourth of July one of the deadliest holidays?
The Fourth of July is a holiday where people gather with their loved ones to celebrate the birth of American independence. Celebrations typically involve watching fireworks, attending parades or concerts, or enjoying barbecues. These festivities are often accompanied by consuming alcoholic beverages. Although it is not a problem to mark the occasion with a couple of drinks, it becomes a serious problem when individuals choose to drive while intoxicated. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 40% of highway deaths between 2007 and 2011 were caused by drunk driving over the Fourth of July weekend.
Alcohol impairs judgment which causes individuals to believe they are sober enough to drive. It also reduces reflexes and critical motor skills needed to operate a vehicle safely. To keep everyone on the road, including yourself, safe this holiday, you should plan your ride ahead of time. This includes arranging a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft or having a sober friend or family member drive. This will help ensure everyone on the road, including yourself, stays safe.
What should I do if I’m injured in an accident?
Following a collision, the most important thing to do is seek immediate medical attention. Regardless of whether you believe your injuries are minor, you must have your injuries treated. This will ensure you have documentation of your injuries. If you think you have been injured in an accident with a drunk driver, calling the police is imperative, as drunk driving is a crime. To determine their blood alcohol concentration, the police will conduct a field sobriety test and a chemical test. The results of the police officers’ investigation can help you by providing evidence to support your claim. This can also help you prove the other driver was at fault for the collision as they violated the law.
If you have been injured in a drunk driving accident, contact a skilled attorney at Swerling Law today. Our firm is prepared to fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.