The Wednesday before Thanksgiving has earned the nickname “Blackout Wednesday” or “Drinksgiving” due to the spikes in binge drinking and alcohol-related accidents. After Halloween, it is the heaviest drinking night of the year. Impaired driving on this night often leads to catastrophic injuries or fatalities. For victims, a Florida car accident lawyer equals justice.
In this article, learn your rights if you were injured during Blackout Wednesday, how “Drinksgiving” adds layers to your case, and what the best course of action is for DUI survivors. In addition, learn how to protect yourself and what steps can be taken to prevent a DUI accident from occurring.
The Commonalities of Drinking and Driving on Blackout Wednesday
Drinking and driving on Blackout Wednesday presents a significant danger to the impaired driver and innocent individuals on the road. Alcohol impairs judgment, slows reaction time, and decreases coordination, making it extremely unsafe to operate a vehicle.
Sobering statistics affiliated with “Drinksgiving” include the following:
- According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2021 alone, 13,384 people were killed in alcohol-impaired driving crashes, accounting for 31% of all traffic fatalities in the United States.
- In 2019, shots were the most commonly ordered drink on Blackout Wednesday, with restaurants reporting a 173% uptick in sales for those types of drinks, according to Lightspeed.
- Over 800 people died in drunk driving crashes over the 2012-2016 Thanksgiving weekends, according to Ria Health. Over 1,200 were seriously injured. Almost 25% of all auto accident fatalities on Thanksgiving involve drunk drivers.
With excessive alcohol consumption being the top cause of DUI accidents on Blackout Wednesday, many states prepare and attempt to offset the fatalities and injuries by enhancing impaired driving security.
Prevent Being a DUI Car Accident Victim During Blackout Wednesday “Drinksgiving”
Auto accident prevention for Blackout Wednesday “Drinksgiving” DUIs can be practiced in the following ways:
Avoiding Drunk Drivers on the Road
Drive cautiously, obey speed limits, and wear your seatbelt. Avoid driving late at night into the early morning hours. Arrange alternative transportation: taxi, ride-sharing, or transit. Report suspected drunk drivers to the authorities. If possible, avoid areas with high congestion or parties.
Implement Alternatives to Drinking and Driving on Blackout Wednesday
Sometimes, victims can also share the responsibility in these instances. It is encouraged to assign a sober designated driver or arrange a ride-share service even when drinking lightly. After all, it’s better to take public transportation or spend the night rather than driving intoxicated.
What to Do If You Are Involved in a DUI Accident on Blackout Wednesday, aka “Drinksgiving”
The checklist for DUI injury victims to follow following “Drinksgiving” consists of:
- Seeking medical help immediately if injured.
- Report the accident to state law enforcement and cooperate with investigations.
- Gather witness information and take photos of the accident scene and damage, if possible.
- Consult with an experienced Florida personal injury attorney regarding your right to compensation.
DUI Penalties and Compensatory Damages Associated with Blackout Wednesday Accidents
DUI accidents resulting in injuries can lead to severe legal consequences for the impaired driver. As a way to prevent DUI driving and car accidents like those present on Blackout Wednesday, state officials are implementing safe driving strategies but also cracking down on harsher sentencing for offenders.
The penalties and charges for causing injury accidents while under the influence vary by jurisdiction but often include criminal charges, license suspension, hefty fines, mandatory alcohol education programs, probation, and even imprisonment.
Victims have legal grounds to pursue civil damages as well, with the help of a skilled DUI auto accident attorney. While no penalty can erase the traumatic experience of being involved with a drunk or drugged driver, the option to pursue justice can result in compensation for:
- Lost wages
- Medical bills
- Loss of consortium
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death
- Loss of services
- Reduced quality of life
- Punitive damages
Seven Surefire Ways an Auto Accident Lawyer Can Help Victims of “Drinksgiving” Accidents
Wondering if hiring an auto accident attorney is worth the cost? Here are seven surefire pros to having a DUI lawyer handle your personal injury case:
Investigation and Gathering Evidence
Attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident to gather crucial evidence. This includes obtaining police reports, interviewing witnesses, analyzing accident scene photos, and reviewing any available surveillance footage. They may also work with accident reconstruction experts to determine liability and establish the cause of the accident.
Determining Liability
Identifying the party or parties responsible for the “Drinksgiving” accident is essential for pursuing a claim. Auto accident attorneys will assess the evidence and applicable laws to determine liability.
This may include holding the intoxicated driver accountable, as well as potentially identifying other parties, such as establishments that overserved alcohol or vehicle manufacturers in the case of defective auto parts.
Insurance Negotiations
Dealing with insurance companies can be complex and overwhelming for victims. Auto accident attorneys have experience in negotiating with insurance adjusters to seek fair compensation for their clients. They will handle all communication with the Car Insurance Quotes company, ensuring that victims’ rights are protected and that they receive the compensation they deserve.
Calculating Damages
Auto accident attorneys will assess the full extent of the damages suffered by the victim. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and any long-term or permanent disabilities resulting from the accident. They will work with medical professionals, economists, and other experts to accurately calculate the value of the claim.
Court Representation
If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, an auto accident attorney will be prepared to take the case to court. They will represent the victim’s interests, presenting a strong case and advocating for maximum compensation in front of a judge and jury.
Ensuring Timely Filing
There are strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims, known as statutes of limitations. DUI attorneys in Florida are well-versed in these deadlines and will ensure that all necessary paperwork is filed within the required timeframes. Failing to meet these deadlines can result in a loss of the right to seek compensation.
Emotional Support
Dealing with the aftermath of a “Drinksgiving” accident can be emotionally challenging. Auto accident attorneys understand the difficulties victims face and can provide valuable emotional support throughout the legal process. They will offer guidance, compassion, and reassurance, helping victims navigate the aftermath of the accident.
Speak to Top-Rated Florida Car Accident Lawyers About Your Blackout Wednesday Accident
If you or a loved one suffered severe injuries in a motor vehicle accident caused by an intoxicated driver this Blackout Wednesday or “Drinksgiving” night, you deserve experienced legal counsel advocating for your rights.
Contact an attorney today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation and learn how they can help you recover and rebuild your life after a traumatic Blackout Wednesday DUI accident.
