The holiday season is full of fun and getting together with friends and family. Many parties include alcohol. If you don't watch your drinking carefully, it is fairly easy to drink too much, putting you over the legal limit. Unfortunately, too many people overestimate their ability to drive a car under this condition and put everyone on the roads in danger. If you are planning on drinking and driving this holiday season, here are some things you can think about.
Quick Stats
To give an idea of how dangerous driving is when alcohol is in your system, here are some quick stats for you to see that every drink increases the likelihood that you will get in an accident:
Consequences
In every state there are consequences for driving drunk. It doesn't matter if you don't feel or act drunk, if your BAC is .08 or above, you are guilty. Each state has different punishments, but you will at least pay a fine and are at risk of having your driver's license suspended or revoked.
There are consequences for more than just the driver when getting behind the wheel while drunk. Many car accidents involve another car. If you hit another car while driving drunk, it is very likely you will hurt or kill passengers in the other vehicle. Don't be too surprised when a car accident lawyer comes knocking on your door to hand you a subpoena. You are liable for all damages caused from your impaired driving.
If you die from your own negligence, your family and friends still suffer. Some think that there are no consequences for others when they mess up, but most families would rather get together to celebrate the holidays than to open up your will.
Be Smart
Never drive when you are drunk. Even just a few drinks affects the ability you have to drive. This doesn't mean that you can't drink and have a good time, it just means you need to plan ahead. Take turns being the designated driver so that there is always someone who is able to drive the others home at the end of the party. Don't ruin the holidays for you or anyone else who is on the road.
Talk to a lawyer such as Allison & Rickards, Attorneys at Law, LLC if you have more questions about the consequences of drunk driving.
Share18 November 2014