Issauquah Drunk Driving Accidents Pose A Serious Threat Over Summer Holidays
Summer celebrations take place throughout Washington State, with the Fourth of July one of the highlights of the season. Festivals, fairs, and dazzling fireworks displays are all fun to attend but beware of putting yourself and others on the road at risk afterward.
Unfortunately, the summer months are the most common time of year for drunk driving accidents in Washington State. Our Issaquah auto accident attorney explains more about the risks and how to protect yourself on the road.
Washington State Drunk Driving Risks
Auto accidents in Washington State are increasing at an alarming rate and have the potential to cause life-threatening harm. The Washington State Traffic Safety Commission reports that they leave thousands suffering severe injuries and claim the lives of close to 800 drivers and passengers annually. Alcohol is a common factor in these crashes.
Drivers often downplay the risks, especially if they only have one or two drinks or do not otherwise feel intoxicated. However, being under the influence of any amount of alcohol can endanger you and others on the road. Serious impairments that impact your driving abilities include:
- Poor judgment, making you less likely to realize how intoxicated you are and more likely to engage in dangerous driving behavior;
- Reduced coordination, making it harder to complete the various tasks associated with driving;
- Blurred vision, increasing sensitivity to glare and making it harder to see the road or other drivers;
- Lack of focus, increasing the risk of distracted driving.
Sadly, drunk driving accidents are more frequent during the summer months, particularly over the Fourth of July weekend. If you are attending one of the many community picnics or other events in our area, either refrain from drinking or find another way home.
Protect Yourself Against Drunk Drivers In Washington State This Summer
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administratio (NHTSA) warns that close to 600 people throughout the country are killed in auto accidents over the Fourth of July weekend each year. Nearly half of all these cases involve drunk driving.
Over the holiday and throughout the busy summer season, when traffic on local roads is heavy, take the steps necessary to protect yourself. Our Issaquah auto accident attorney recommends the following:
- Make sure you are well-rested before taking any trip;
- Make arrangements to prevent drunk driving;
- Do not let others get behind the wheel if they have any amount of alcohol in their system;
- On the road, be alert for warning signs another motorist is impaired, such as swerving, going under the speed limit, or driving with their lights off;
- If a crash happens, notify the police immediately and get the other driver’s plate number in case they flee the scene.
Contact Our Issaquah Auto Accident Attorney
Injury Law Group NW. protects the rights of car accident victims in Washington State. We provide the caring support and professional legal representation needed to hold those at fault liable for your losses. To request a consultation, call or contact our Issaquah auto accident attorney online today.
Sources:
wtsc.wa.gov/2022-saw-most-traffic-deaths-on-washington-roads-since-1990/
nhtsa.gov/celebrate-america-safely-july-4th
