While it’s fun to celebrate the holidays, we must do so responsibly. Every year, the holiday season sees a dramatic increase in alcohol consumption, and, unfortunately, this also leads to a rise in drunk driving accidents. The statistics are a warning to everyone to make responsible choices about getting home safely on New Year’s Eve, without risking their lives or those of others on the road.
2025 Drunk Driving Predictions
According to data from the National Safety Council (NSC), celebrating safely should be a top priority. Here’s what their predictions show for the upcoming New Year’s Day holiday period:
- Fatalities: An estimated 179 people may die in fatal car accidents. This is a 52% decrease from last year.
- Impaired Driving: During the 2022 New Year’s holiday, 37% of fatalities involved an alcohol-impaired driver.
- Injuries: Around 20,400 people may suffer injuries serious enough to require medical attention.
- Seat Belts: An estimated 71 lives may be saved by wearing seat belts, and an additional 42 could be saved if everyone buckled up.
How to Stay Safe This New Year’s Eve
Taking extra precautions on New Year’s Eve is crucial, especially considering the statistics on holiday drinking and driving. Here are some ways to ensure you and others remain safe:
- Designate a Sober Driver: Choose someone who agrees not to drink and will be responsible for getting everyone home safely.
- Use Rideshares: Plan to use taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft.
- Stay the Night: If you can, arrange to stay overnight where you’re celebrating instead of driving home impaired.
- Abstain from Alcohol: The safest choice is to avoid drinking altogether, especially if you know you need to drive.
No one wants their holiday celebrations overshadowed by a preventable tragedy. This New Year’s, make a plan to protect yourself and everyone else on the road. If you are injured in a car accident this holiday season, contact the experienced car crash attorneys at DM Injury Law for a free consultation. We are here to listen to your story, and you won’t pay any fees unless we win your case.
Call (816) 888-7500 or contact us online today for a free consultation.