Is It Dangerous to Drive on New Year’s Eve in NJ?

New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day bring celebrations, but also increased road dangers. If you are injured in an accident during this holiday period, a determined Morris County Car Accident Attorney can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. 

Why is New Year’s Eve One of the Most Dangerous Nights to Drive in NJ?

Holiday drunk driving statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveal that New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day are periods of heightened danger on the road, increasing the likelihood of an accident. The most apparent contributing factor, particularly during the celebratory hours of New Year’s Eve and the early morning of January 1st, is impaired driving due to alcohol consumption. The increased number of drivers on the road, combined with a higher prevalence of people getting behind the wheel while impaired, significantly escalates the risk of collisions and other dangerous incidents.

Nevertheless, alcohol impairment is not the sole concern during this holiday period. New Year’s also marks a popular time for travel, leading to a substantial increase in traffic volume and more congested roadways. This heightened density of vehicles inherently raises the potential for accidents.

Furthermore, a less obvious but equally perilous factor emerges on New Year’s Day: fatigued driving. Many individuals who responsibly chose not to get behind the wheel after celebrating on New Year’s may drive the following day while drowsy. It’s imperative to note that drowsiness can mimic the effects of alcohol impairment, significantly impairing a driver’s reaction time, judgment, and overall ability to operate their vehicle safely. This combination of factors creates a uniquely hazardous environment for all road users.

What Steps Should I Take If I’m Involved in an Accident?

In the unfortunate event that you are involved in an accident, understanding the steps you must take to ensure your health and protect your legal rights is crucial. Prioritize safety and follow these steps:

• Secure the Area: If you are physically able, safely maneuver your vehicle to a safe location, away from active traffic.
• Contact Law Enforcement: You should immediately dial emergency services to report the accident and request police presence at the scene.
• Information Exchange: Obtain essential information from all other drivers involved, including their full name, contact number, insurance company, and policy number, as well as driver’s licence details.
• Take Note of the Other Driver’s Behavior: Before law enforcement arrives, you should observe the other driver’s behavior. If you suspect they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you should relay this information to an officer. They will determine whether they are over the legal limit.
• Witness Information: Gather contact information from any individuals who witnessed the incident. Their accounts can be crucial later on.
• Document the Scene: Utilize your phone to capture photographs of all vehicles involved, road conditions, visible injuries, and any relevant surroundings.

It should be noted that even if you feel fine, it’s crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Certain injuries are not immediately apparent, and a medical record can be vital for your claim. Furthermore, if the other driver flees the scene, you should record any details you can recall. This information will significantly assist law enforcement in their investigation and efforts to locate the individual. You should refrain from following them.

Planning ahead for a sober ride is crucial to preventing drunk driving during the holidays. Celebrate responsibly by designating a sober driver, utilizing rideshare services, or making arrangements to stay overnight, thereby ensuring the safety of everyone on the road. At Lutz Injury, we are prepared to help you understand your legal options and fight for the justice you deserve. Connect with our firm today for guidance and skilled representation.