The CDC reports that millions of alcohol-impaired drivers get behind the wheel each year. This danger is especially present in Texas, where adults report that they drive under the influence almost 50% more than the national average.
But there’s one more variable that increases the probability of a drunk driving accident: spring break. The Texas Department of Transportation reports that, during spring break of 2019, 444 car accident deaths were attributed to underage drunk drivers.
What is the cause of this increased danger? And what can we do to avoid these deadly car crashes?
Causes of car accidents on spring break
There are a number of factors that contribute to the increased danger on the road during spring break.
- More young drivers on the road: During spring break, high school and college students have a full week off from school to travel around the country and party. As a result, there are more young people behind the wheel than usual. In general, young people are more likely to be involved in car accidents than older drivers, which means spring break is going to see a higher frequency of accidents.
- Drinking and drug use: A study conducted by the American College of Health estimated that in spring break of 2020, the average young man would consume 18 drinks per day, and the average young woman would consume 10. There’s no denying that a lot of drinking and drug use goes on during spring break, which is going to result in an increase in impaired driving.
- Texting while driving: Many spring breakers will also be engaged in cell phone use while behind the wheel.
- Drowsy driving: Prolonged partying and cross-country road trips mean drowsiness afflict many spring break drivers.
Tips to avoid spring break accidents
No matter how careful you are, there’s no accounting for the other people on the road. No matter what, driving during spring break means exposing yourself to the dangers of increased traffic accidents.
Here are some tips to make sure you’re staying as safe as possible during the break.
- Drive defensively: Keep a safe distance between your car and the car in front of you. Check your mirrors, use your turn signal, and do everything you can to make sure that you’re not endangering yourself or the other passengers in your car.
- Plan ahead: Having a solid idea of your destination and a carefully-planned route ahead of time can reduce distractions and allow you to focus on the most important thing while you’re driving: the road in front of you.
- Wear your seatbelt: It saves lives.
- Give your friends a ride: If you are participating in the partying, don’t give in to peer pressure. Be the responsible one and make sure everyone gets home safe, whether that means taking the bus, buying everyone Ubers, or biting the bullet and being the designated driver yourself.
- Don’t drive under the influence: In the end, the only person who can make sure you don’t drink and drive is you!
What to do if you’re the victim of a car accident
- First, make sure everyone is alright, and seek medical attention if necessary.
- Next, document the scene as best you can. If the drunk driver is trying to get away, take down their license plate.
- Then, take pictures of the scene and write down everything that happened.
After you’re made your report and talked to your insurance company, your surest bet is to contact a car accident or personal injury lawyer. Their experience and expertise will help make sure you are compensated for any injuries or damage to your car that you may have sustained as a result of the accident.
Contact a car accident lawyer in Austin, TX
No matter how careful you are, sometimes you just get unlucky on the road. In the event of an accident, it helps to have a professional by your side to help you through the legal process and make sure you receive full compensation for your losses. The Stewart Law Firm can help you with that. Contact us for a free consultation today.
