Avoid Drunk Driving in Indiana During the Holiday Season

The song says, “it’s the most wonderful time of the year,” but it’s one of the most dangerous times of the year too. As travel and socializing increase exponentially between Thanksgiving and Christmas, so does drunk driving fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Christmas period sees an average of 45 fatalities involving drunk drivers each day. The average rises to 54 per day over the New Year’s holiday.

DUI arrests surge during this season as well. Indiana police departments typically send officers out in force throughout the holiday season to ensure that the roads remain as safe as possible.

We all want to enjoy the holidays with our families and friends safely. If you’re planning on doing a lot of celebrating and driving this season, make sure that you follow these three tips.

1. Choose a designated driver. Long before the alcohol starts flowing, pick a designated driver. This person should have a valid driver’s license, be responsible, and be able to resist temptation. Also, make sure that the person has agreed to be the designated driver. Don’t assume that because someone has done it in the past, they’ll do it again!
2. Be prepared to call a ride service. No designated driver? No problem. Just be ready to call a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to take you home. Have the appropriate apps already installed on your telephone and your bank account connected before heading out. If you prefer to call a taxi, make sure you have the money to pay for it.
3. Avoid driving late at night. If you must drive, make sure you go home before it gets too late. Driving at night is generally more dangerous as people are often more fatigued, have compromised vision, and are more likely to be driving under the influence. According to statistics compiled by the Indiana University Public Policy Institute, in 2019, the highest percentage of fatal and incapacitating injuries due to drunk driving occurred between midnight and four a.m. So, be sure to plan your travel time wisely.

If you’re facing DUI charges in Indiana, it’s essential to get an experienced criminal defense team on your side as soon as possible. The attorneys at Razumich & Associates will fight to ensure your legal rights are protected and defend you against the charges. Contact us today to learn more.