New Year’s Eve is the perfect excuse to party. If your plans involve alcohol, it is critical that you take steps to avoid drunk-driving accidents.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, January 1st is the second-deadliest day of the year on U.S. roads. Between 2010 and 2014, more than 118 people died in traffic accidents on New Year’s Day on average. The IIHS estimates that alcohol contributed to 62 percent of those deaths.
If you are injured or lose a family member due to a drunk driver over the holiday, contact Ballard Law, PLLC. An accident lawyer in Jackson will evaluate your case to determine if you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income and other damages.
Personal-injury attorney William E. Ballard will help you avoid mistakes during the claims process such as overlooking certain damages, accepting a low settlement or making recorded statements to insurance adjusters. Call 769-572-5111 to schedule a free consultation. You can also visit the USAttorneys website to learn more about drunk-driving accident lawsuits in Mississippi.
3 Safe-Driving Tips That Could Save Your Life on New Year’s Eve
Fireworks, late nights, delicious food – these are just a few reasons why New Year’s Eve is one of the most enjoyable nights of the year. However, nothing will ruin the fun quicker than a drunk-driving accident.
Let’s take a look at three tips to help you avoid alcohol-related collisions over the holiday:
- Never Drive after Consuming Alcohol
Far too many people who would never drive under the influence choose to make an exception on New Year’s Eve. Don’t make this mistake.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, having a BAC of 0.08 or higher will impair your:
- Ability to concentrate;
- Ability to notice hazards in the road;
- Ability to perceive danger;
- Memory; and
- Keep Your Distance from Drunk Drivers
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are dozens of signs that police officers use to identify drunk drivers. It is important that you learn these signs and keep your distance from drivers who appear intoxicated. Here are a few cues to look for:
- Swerving;
- Stopping suddenly – for no reason;
- Driving at night with the headlights switched off;
- Turning without signaling; or
- Accelerating or braking erratically.
- Use a Rideshare Service
Uber and Lyft both operate in Jackson, Mississippi. If you plan to drink and you do not have a designated driver, download the Uber and Lyft apps before the festivities begin. Rideshare services are more convenient and cheaper than most traditional taxis.
Unfortunately, nobody can control the actions of other motorists, and some accidents are unavoidable. If you are injured due to a drunk driver on New Year’s Eve, contact Ballard Law, PLLC.
An accident lawyer in Jackson will gather evidence, interview witnesses, assess the police report and doctors’ records, and help you fight for the maximum compensation. Call 769-572-5111 to schedule a free consultation.
