New Year’s Eve should be a time of celebration for the fresh start to come, but it is also one of the most dangerous nights of the year for Tennessee drivers. Whether you’re heading to a party or simply driving home from work, the risk of an accident and injury drastically increases on this holiday. Understanding the risks and knowing your rights if you’re injured can help you stay safe and protect yourself legally. Read on for more information on the dangers of driving on New Year’s Eve, and set up your free case evaluation with an experienced Memphis car accident lawyer today.
What Are the Dangers of Driving on New Year’s Eve in TN?
New Year’s Eve poses an increased risk to road users because many celebrations involve alcohol, bar hopping, and late-night events. Traffic increases dramatically, and people are often in a rush to get to parties before midnight or drive home exhausted at late hours. This combination leads to an increase in collisions, injuries, and even deaths.
Alcohol in particular is deeply ingrained in New Year’s celebrations, from the traditional champagne toast to bar crawls and wild parties. This contributes to more impaired drivers on the road, not to mention intoxicated pedestrians. However, it’s not just alcohol that causes an increase in accidents. Some other dangers on New Year’s include the following:
- Increased traffic: Many more people than normal are on the roads on New Year’s Eve, as it is a popular time for travel and parties. This leads to more vehicles and pedestrians on the road.
- Congestion can increase the likelihood of rear-end crashes.
- Driver fatigue: New Year’s Eve is known for its late-night celebrations. Many drivers are exhausted, especially when traveling past midnight, which can slow reaction times or result in drivers falling asleep at the wheel.
- Winter weather: Wintertime brings harsh weather conditions, including sleet, ice, snow, and poor visibility, which can all contribute to collisions.
- Aggressive driving: An increase in traffic means an increase in road rage and aggressive driving techniques, which can cause accidents.
- Distracted driving: Especially on a holiday, drivers are often multitasking, whether they are texting friends their ETA, checking directions, coordinating rides, or using social media. This can increase the risk of a crash.
How Can I Minimize Risk on New Year’s?
If you’re going out this New Year’s Eve, it is crucial that you take steps to prevent accidents and protect yourself and others. If you’re driving or in the car, make sure to wear your seatbelt, avoid distractions, and stay alert for erratic drivers. Defensive driving is important on a day like this.
Try to coordinate your sober ride home ahead of time or use rideshare apps. Do not get behind the wheel intoxicated, even if you think you’re only a little buzzed. Stay somewhere safe overnight if needed or possible.
If you are injured in an accident on New Year’s Eve, understanding your legal rights and options is critical. Reach out to a skilled personal injury attorney for more information today.