Turkey might take center stage on Thanksgiving, but it would not be the same without stuffing, mashed potatoes, or cranberry sauce. Of course, for many Americans, that list also includes alcohol. Whether it’s cold beer or hot cider, families everywhere like to enjoy a few cocktails when breaking bread together.
There is nothing wrong with having some drinks alongside dinner—as long as you make special arrangements. Whether that means sleeping at your relative’s place or using a rideshare service, it is essential that you avoid drinking and driving over the holiday weekend. You should also make it a point to stop your loved ones from getting behind the wheel if they are intoxicated.
Sadly, even if you avoid driving while impaired, you cannot rely on others to do the same. According to Forbes, approximately 41 percent of the accident fatalities that occur on Thanksgiving can be attributed to impaired motorists.
If you were hurt in a collision with a drunk driver, you may be able to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact the Law Office of Joel W. Baruch, P.C. to discuss your case and determine if you have grounds for a claim.
Our attorneys have litigated more than 200 trials. Call 949-864-9662 to schedule a case evaluation with an accident lawyer in Irvine.
Read on to learn how you can prevent your relatives from drinking and driving this Thanksgiving:
- Offer to Be Designated Driver
If you are feeling generous or just want to get into the holiday spirit, why not volunteer to be designated driver for the evening? You can pick up and drop off the relatives who live nearby so no one has to get behind the wheel while they are drunk or drowsy.
- Make Sleeping Arrangements
Ask whoever is hosting Thanksgiving if it is okay for people to spend the night. Do this in advance so you are not springing it on your host last minute, and then just toss a few air mattresses in your trunk before heading over so you have them if necessary. Since the host will likely be busy serving up the holiday feast, take it upon yourself to discuss sleeping arrangements—especially with the rowdier cousins—and then set up the air mattresses for those who need them.
- Enlist the Help of Others
If one of your relatives is especially stubborn about driving home after tossing a few back, ask your other family members for help. Your loved one may be able to say no to one of you, but when everyone is involved, refusing your help will be much harder.
Unfortunately, even if you keep your relatives off the roads while they are impaired, you cannot rely on other families to do the same. If you were hurt in a drunk driving collision, contact the Law Office of Joel W. Baruch, P.C.
Joel Baruch has been distinguished in the National Trial Lawyer’s Top One Hundred. Call 949-864-9662 to schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney in Irvine. If you want to learn more about collision claims in California, visit the USAttorneys website.
