Thanksgiving is a time where family and friends enjoy feasting on delicious food and watching football together. In addition, alcohol consumption is also a significant part of the festivities.
However, more than 800 people have died in drunk driving accidents during the Thanksgiving weekend over the past five years, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). And since tens of millions of Americans will be hitting the road during the four-day weekend, the Thanksgiving holiday is considered one of the most dangerous times of year to be driving.
The following are several DUI statistics associated with Thanksgiving weekend:
- Since many people return to their hometown on Thanksgiving Eve, it is commonly known as “Blackout Wednesday” because it is one of the biggest drinking nights of the year. According to Upserve, beer sales increase by 270 percent and hard liquor sales increase by 114 percent, which is why many areas experience a significant rise in drunk driving that night.
- The American Automobile Association (AAA) states more than 45 million Americans will take a road trip during Thanksgiving weekend.
- According to the NHTSA, one-third of all traffic fatalities during the 2016 Thanksgiving weekend involved intoxicated motorists.
- Fifty-one (51) percent of drunk drivers claim they consume more alcohol during the holidays than the rest of the year.
- Ninety-two (92) percent of high-risk DUI offenders said alcohol monitoring systems help them avoid consuming alcohol during the holidays.
If you plan on drinking during the Thanksgiving holiday period, there are several ways to avoid a DUI this holiday season. However, if you get arrested during the Thanksgiving weekend in Denver, our legal team at Orr Law Firm can protect your rights and freedom and do our best to help you avoid spending your Thanksgiving weekend in jail.
For more information about our legal services, contact Orr Law Firm today at (303) 747-4247 and schedule a free consultation. Let us help you avoid spending Thanksgiving behind bars.