Labor Day weekend usually signals the end of summer, prompting celebratory barbecues or other festivities. These might include alcohol for some people, which has been known to be one of the leading reasons as to why this holiday is also traditionally one of the most deadly for car accidents.
The National Safety Council has already begun to sound the alarm, predicting that this year’s Labor Day will likely be the most deadly in terms of accidents since 2008 with an estimated 438 deaths. In that same 2008 year, the NSC predicted 439 deaths; 473 actually occurred.
In addition to a major increase in drivers on the roads for the weekend, many people who are in a hurry jump behind the wheel of a car regardless of whether or not they have been drinking. This significantly increases the chance of a collision as they cannot react or respond the same way they would if they were sober.
Ways to Stay Safe
If you are planning on hitting the roads this weekend, there are a few general safety tips you should always keep in mind and follow closely:
- Never drink and drive
- If you do plan on consuming alcohol, have a designated driver or alternative transportation
- Drive defensively and avoid drivers who look as though they are intoxicated
- Always wear a safety belt
To help curb the number of intoxicated drivers, police will also be out in force with increased patrols in nearly every state. As part of the national “Stay Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, expect to see DUI checkpoints and additional patrol cars on the streets to help keep drunk driving to a minimum and hopefully limit fatalities as much as possible.
Seek Help After An Accident
If you are involved in an auto accident caused by a drunk driver this weekend, contact the skilled North Carolina car accident Attorney at Twiggs, Strickland & Rabenau as soon as possible. Our award-winning firm may be able to assist you in applying the law to your accident in order to best pursue substantial compensation for your injuries.Call The Law Office of Donald R Strickland today by dialing (919) 828-4357 and let us review your case for free after your accident!