The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it’s also a dangerous period on our roads. December is recognized as National Impaired Driving Prevention Month to remind us of the need to make responsible choices before drinking.
Drunk driving accident statistics
Even one drink can impair visual function, judgment, and motor skills. This can lead to deadly consequences behind the wheel. Research shows that alcohol-related crashes remain a major issue across the United States. Over the years, measures such as lowering the legal BAC limit and raising the minimum drinking age have helped reduce the number of drunk driving deaths.
However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that drivers at or above the 0.08 blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit were involved in roughly 13,524 traffic fatalities. That doesn't even account for the drivers with a BAC within the legal limit. Additionally, one in eight drivers admits to driving close to or above the legal limit in the past year.
The impact of drunk driving accidents on families
The consequences of drunk driving go far beyond statistics—they leave lasting emotional scars on victims and their families. Holiday drunk driving accidents are especially devastating, turning what should be a season of joy into one of grief and loss. Families often face not only emotional trauma but also significant financial burdens, including medical bills, funeral expenses, and lost income.
The dangers of "buzzed driving" during the holidays
In Indiana, it's illegal to drive with a BAC at or above .08. However, this isn't the only level of impairment. Getting behind the wheel after only a couple of drinks may be considered "buzzed driving." Impairment starts at a BAC of only .02, as relaxation kicks in and judgment starts to become slightly clouded.
As someone reaches a BAC of .05, they begin to experience some loss of muscle control, coordination, judgment, and reaction time. Plus, buzzed drivers run the risk of getting drowsy and falling asleep at the wheel, especially at night. This is enough to cause a serious and potentially fatal crash.
It’s important to remember that alcohol isn’t the only cause of impairment. Drugs, fatigue, and stress can also compromise a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely. Staying off the road while impaired—whatever the cause—protects lives.
What can drivers do to prevent drunk driving?
Drunk driving accidents are 100% preventable. The strategy is simple: don't drink and drive. Indiana drivers have plenty of other options, including:
- Designating a sober driver
- Using a taxi or rideshare service
- Walking within a reasonable distance
- Spending the night at a friend or relative's house
- Renting a hotel or Airbnb
If you notice another driver swerving or behaving erratically, don't hesitate to call the police. Keep your distance from them to avoid putting yourself in danger.
How Indiana laws protect drunk driving victims
Indiana has strict laws designed to reduce drunk driving, including dram shop liability, which holds businesses accountable for overserving alcohol to visibly intoxicated patrons. If a bar, restaurant, or other establishment contributed to the crash, an experienced Indiana attorney can pursue a dram shop claim on your behalf, maximizing your recovery and promoting safer practices within the community.
Injured by a drunk driver in Indiana? Contact Glaser & Ebbs
Drunk driving accidents not only endanger lives but also leave victims and their families facing unimaginable pain and hardship. Whether it’s through physical injuries, emotional trauma, or financial burdens, the impact of these preventable crashes is profound. While prevention is key, the unfortunate reality is that many families are left picking up the pieces after a drunk driver’s reckless decision.
When tragedy strikes, it’s crucial to know your legal options and take steps to hold negligent drivers and any other responsible parties accountable. That’s where the right legal team can make all the difference.
If you or a loved one were injured by a drunk driver in Indiana, it’s time to take action. The drunk driving accident lawyers at Glaser & Ebbs can fight for your rights and demand the justice you deserve. With over 100 years of combined legal experience, our legal team has successfully achieved results for clients. That includes a $16 Million settlement in a case where a local restaurant overserved a patron who caused a fatal car accident after leaving.
To get started, contact us online or call any of our Indiana law offices. We'll be glad to discuss your case further, explain your options, and answer any questions you have.
“My experience with this company has been nothing but good. The employees are friendly and the representation they provide is top notch. Anyone looking for a good lawyer, there’s no need to look any further. Glaser & Ebbs is the BEST in Fort Wayne if not the Region.” - ES, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐