The holiday season in Philadelphia means taking much-needed time to attend family gatherings and festive holiday events. However, many local drivers aren’t aware that the holiday season can also be one of the most dangerous times of the year, with a rising number of drunk driving accidents.
Find out how to stay safer this holiday season and learn about some of the legal repercussions of drunk driving from an expert car crash lawyer at Louis B. Himmelstein & Associates.
Why Drunk Driving Accidents Increase During the Holidays
Increased holiday travel also means increased incidents of drunk driving-related accidents and the need for representation by a skilled auto accident lawyer.
Traffic Congestion
Attending holiday parties, family gatherings, and festive holiday celebrations means an increase in travel and the number of vehicles on local roadways.
Adding in the extra traffic from excited holiday shoppers and commuters on major roadways like I-76 or I-95 can lead to fender benders, and major automobile accidents.
Winter Weather
Ice, snow, sleet, and freezing rain are additional factors that can contribute to the rise in holiday-related auto accidents in Philadelphia County.
Distracted drivers unprepared for winter travel can find themselves involved in snow and winter-related accidents which can lead to property damage, legal claims, and medical expenses for at-fault drivers.
Distracted Driving
Driving while distracted is a major cause of accidents on local roads. Drivers trying to follow directions on GPS, or texting and chatting with friends and family on their way to attend holiday celebrations can find themselves unable to stop in enough time to avoid causing an accident or being hit by other drivers.
Drunk Driving
Driving while intoxicated is a major issue that arises during the holidays. Drunk drivers and revelers can find themselves in minor and major accidents as they make their way between festive destinations and their homes.
Avoid an auto accident lawsuit during the holidays by designating a sober driver or taking advantage of free holiday rides offered by rideshare companies like Uber or Lyft.
Legal Repercussions of Drunk Driving
Pennsylvania driving laws are strict for driving while drunk. Perpetrators caught drunk driving can face stiff legal penalties that can include fines, license suspension, and even jail time for repeat or serious offenses.
Drunk drivers in Philadelphia County are subject to the state’s tiered criminal punishment system, where escalating penalties apply for each additional offense. Intoxicated drivers may also face legal backlash when lawsuits are filed for medical expenses, property damage, or pain and suffering.
Talk to a local car crash lawyer to learn more.
Contact an Auto Accident Attorney in Philadelphia
If you or a loved one has been involved in a drunk driving accident this holiday season, seek legal advice from a trusted local auto accident lawyer at Louis B. Himmelstein & Associates. Our team of personal injury experts can review your claim for an auto accident lawsuit and help you protect your legal rights after an accident.
Contact our offices today to speak with a highly skilled auto accident attorney in Philadelphia!
