Regular readers of our blog know that we often share information about road dangers to be aware of. Because the holidays are typically when more Americans are on the road than at any other time of year, we’re going to take a quick look at the dangerous Ds of driving: drinking and drugs, distractions, drowsiness.
Each D can lead to motor vehicle crashes that result in serious injuries or fatalities.
According to the federal government’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly all traffic wrecks are due to human error (94 percent). Because our streets and highways are going to be extra busy during the holidays, it’s time to be extra careful to ensure that you and your loved ones arrive safely.
- Drinking and driving: According to the Centers for Disease Control, one person dies in an alcohol-related crash every hour of every day in the United States. The sad reality today is that an increasing number of drivers are using drugs as well: about one out of every five drivers in wrecks test positive for prescription drugs, illegal substances or over-the-counter medications.
- Distracted driving: The National Safety Council estimates that one in four crashes today involve a distracted driver.
- Drowsy driving: The NHTSA says that five years ago, drowsy drivers caused more than 70,000 crashes that resulted in 44,000 injuries and 800 deaths.
Please be careful and please enjoy your holidays with family and friends.
Those who are harmed by a distracted, drowsy or drunk driver should contact a skilled lawyer experienced in personal injury litigation.