Atlanta Injury Lawyer Blog
The holidays bring joy, laughter, and togetherness—but the festive season also sees a sharp rise in traffic accidents and drunk driving incidents. Holiday lights shouldn’t be accompanied by sirens. Whether you’re headed to a family gathering, a holiday party, or a winter getaway, driving responsibly isn’t just about protecting yourself; it’s about safeguarding everyone on the road. Here’s what you need to keep in mind as you get behind the wheel this season.
Why Holiday Roads Are Risky
The numbers don’t lie: traffic accidents spike during the holidays. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the end-of-year holiday period sees thousands of crashes, many of them caused by impaired or distracted drivers.
But it’s not just drunk driving that creates hazards. Drivers are more distracted than ever, often fumbling with GPS directions or answering holiday greetings on their phones. Add winter weather, longer trips, and crowded roads, and you have a recipe for disaster. Stay alert, put your phone away, and ensure your vehicle is ready for the season’s challenges. Check your tires, top off your fluids, and don’t hit the road until you’re rested and focused.
What to Do After an Accident
No one leaves home expecting to get into an accident, but preparation can make all the difference if it happens. First, make sure everyone’s safe and call 911 for medical assistance if needed. Document the scene: take photos of the vehicles, the road conditions, and any visible injuries. Exchange information with the other driver, but avoid admitting fault, even casually.
Seek medical care immediately, even if you feel fine. Some injuries don’t show symptoms right away, and delaying treatment can hurt both your recovery and your legal claim. Finally, notify your insurance company promptly and consult an attorney before accepting any settlement offers.
The Cost of Drunk Driving
Drunk driving peaks during the holiday season, turning joyous occasions into tragedies. If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver, you’re entitled to more than an apology. Personal injury claims can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering. More importantly, they hold drunk drivers accountable, sending a strong message that reckless behavior won’t go unchecked.
Preventing drunk driving is a shared responsibility. If you plan to drink, arrange a safe ride home ahead of time. Designated drivers, rideshares, or even staying the night at your host’s home can save lives. Hosting a party? Offer plenty of non-alcoholic options and help your guests find safe ways to leave.
When the Unexpected Happens
Accidents disrupt the holidays, but they don’t have to derail your future. An experienced attorney can handle insurance claims, liability issues, and negotiations, so you can focus on recovery and spending time with loved ones. Whether you’ve been hit by a drunk driver, injured in a rideshare vehicle, or slipped on an icy walkway, legal advocacy ensures your voice is heard and your losses are addressed.
If an accident does occur, act quickly. Evidence can fade, memories can blur, and deadlines can be missed. Your rights matter, and having a trusted advocate on your side can make all the difference
The holiday season should be about celebration, not catastrophe. But if you or a loved one is injured due to someone else’s negligence, Robin Frazer Clark, P.C., is here to help. With compassion and dedication, we’ll fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us at (404) 873-3700 for a free consultation. This season, drive safe—and remember, we’re always just a phone call away.
