Also known as “Drinksgiving,” Blackout Wednesday refers to binge drinking on the night before Thanksgiving. As the biggest drinking day of the year, Blackout Wednesday is notorious for DUIs, as well. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
“Impaired-driving-related crashes spike during the Thanksgiving holiday season.”
Whether you are a student coming home for the holidays, a young adult reuniting with old friends, or you simply want to grab a drink before hosting a stressful Thanksgiving feast, remember to drink responsibly. Never get behind the wheel after consuming drugs or alcohol and designate a sober driver to take you home at the end of the night.
If you are the designated driver, take your responsibility seriously and do not drink at all. Even one drink is enough to impair your driving, and other drivers on the road may not be as careful as you.
Although the legal limit is a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08%, you can get in trouble for having any alcohol in your system at the time of an accident, particularly if the accident is your fault.
To avoid misunderstandings, do not drink if you plan to get behind the wheel at any point in the night. Otherwise, you may have to hire a criminal defense attorney to clarify the situation and protect your freedom.
Thanksgiving Travel Makes Driving Dangerous
Keep in mind that Thanksgiving weekend is a dangerous time to drive, as there are more cars on the road, and many drivers are from out of town and do not know where they are going. Practice defensive driving and do not engage in unsafe behaviors like speeding, tailgating, or texting and driving.
Unfortunately, you can only control your own actions. If an impaired or otherwise negligent driver causes an accident, do not be afraid to hold them accountable for your injuries and other losses.
Filing a personal injury lawsuit can help you recover compensation for medical bills, missed wages, and more. It can also send the message that drunk, distracted, or careless driving is unacceptable – during Blackout Wednesday, Thanksgiving, and all other times of the year.
If you need help getting justice, Foley Griffin is here for you. We have more than 75 years of collective legal experience, and we treat every client with dignity and respect.
Our firm also offers free consultations to help you get started, so do not hesitate to schedule yours today.
We are available 24/7 at (888) 966-8480 and online, so you can call us the moment an accident or arrest takes place. Don’t face the legal system alone. Contact us for help instead.