The holidays are a great time for celebrating with family and friends,
but remember it is also one of the more dangerous times to be out on the
road. The number of deaths and injuries from
auto accidents increase during Christmas and New Years.
Some Things to Remember This Holiday Season
Drinking and Driving
Any amount of alcohol can worsen vision, coordination and reaction time
when driving. If you are going to a holiday party, prepare ahead of time
and get a designated driver or call a taxi to drive you home safely. In
Louisiana, you can be charged with a DWI with the following blood alcohol
concentrations (BAC); if you are under 21 years old, the BAC when driving
is .02%. Those over 21, the blood alcohol concentration is .08% and for
commercial drivers, the BAC is .04%. Remember that any drunk driver that
causes an accident that kills another person can face up to 20 years in
prison. And in civil court, a drunk driver whose intoxication is the cause
of injury to a person can face a claim for punitive damages under Louisiana
law. Our firm has handled many of these claims for punitive damages.
It is best not to take any chances if you have consumed any amount of
alcohol. Be prepared ahead of time and get a designated driver.
Crowded Roads
The roads are extra crowded this time of year so be patient in traffic
situations. It is important to keep your eye on the road, don’t
speed and buckle up.
Weather Conditions
Inclement weather can lead to dangerous road conditions which can increase
your chance of getting into an accident.
Even if you are a responsible driver this holiday season, you may not be
able to prevent an auto accident caused by another driver. If you are
injured in an accident or have any questions regarding an accident,
call the Womac Law Firm for a free consultation with one of our experienced personal injury attorneys.