Corey Eschweiler: National Impaired Driving Prevention Month

1. Corey Eschweiler: National Impaired Driving Prevention Month The holiday season is a time for parties, celebrations, and gatherings with family, friends, and co- workers. For many, these festivities also include alcohol. This is why December is recognized as National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving and promote safe practices. While impaired driving is a year-round issue, its prevalence increases significantly during the holidays. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 1,062 people lost their lives in drunk driving-related crashes in December 2022. Despite its well-documented dangers, many individuals still choose to drive under the influence, putting countless lives at risk. The Las Vegas car accident lawyers at ER Injury Attorneys want everyone to enjoy the holiday season safely. This National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, learn how to recognize the signs of impaired driving and discover effective tips to prevent it. Learn the Signs of Impairment This National Impaired Driving Prevention Month National Impaired Driving Prevention Month is a crucial time to spread awareness about the dangers of impaired driving and educate communities on how to prevent it. One of the best ways to combat impaired driving is by learning how to recognize its signs. While many associate impaired driving solely with alcohol, it encompasses much more. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), impaired driving occurs “when someone operates a vehicle while impaired by a substance like marijuana, other illicit drugs, some prescribed or over-the-counter medicines, or alcohol.” Understanding the various forms of impairment is vital. Different substances affect individuals in distinct ways, altering their ability to drive safely. For instance, depressants like alcohol and marijuana impair cognitive functions and reflexes, while stimulants such as amphetamines and cocaine can lead to aggressive and reckless driving behaviors. These diverse effects are why impaired driving manifests in multiple warning signs. Recognizing the indicators of impaired driving can help prevent accidents and save lives. Here are some key signs our Las Vegas car crash lawyer suggest looking out for: • Excessive speeding

2. • Driving too slow • Changing lanes frequently and other erratic driving behaviors • Tailgating • Sudden braking and accelerating • Making turns too fast or too slow • Driving without headlights • Disregarding traffic signals and signs • Driving on the wrong side of the road Recognizing and reporting impaired driving while on the road can be a critical step in saving lives and preventing fatal car accidents. If you observe a driver exhibiting any of the signs of impaired driving mentioned above, there is a strong possibility that they are under the influence. Act promptly by calling the police to report the incident. 6 Ways to Avoid Impaired Driving National Impaired Driving Prevention Month serves as a vital reminder of the dangers of driving under the influence and the importance of proactive measures to prevent impaired driving. While the solution may seem straightforward–don’t drive while impaired–the reality is more complicated. Every day, impaired drivers take to the road, often underestimating the risks they pose to themselves and others. For some, the temptation to drive while impaired arises from the false confidence of “getting away with it” in the past. However, no amount of convenience is worth endangering your life, the lives of innocent victims, or facing criminal consequences. Whether during the holiday season or any other time of year, following these practical tips can help ensure you and your loved ones avoid impaired driving. 1. Have a Designated Driver A designated driver is one of the most reliable ways to prevent impaired driving. If you’re not planning to use a rideshare service, take a taxi, or use public transportation, make sure someone in your group volunteers to stay sober. A designated driver ensures everyone gets home safely and without incident. When someone agrees to be the designated driver, it’s essential they commit to abstaining from alcohol entirely for the night. Thank and respect your designated driver–they’re not just a friend; they’re a lifesaver. 2. Make a Plan Ahead of Time Planning ahead is crucial for any night out, especially when alcohol is involved. Coordinate with your group of friends in advance to decide how you’ll get home. Additionally, discuss contingency plans in case you get separated. Having a solid plan can help eliminate last-minute decisions that might lead to poor choices, such as getting behind the wheel while impaired. Be prepared and ensure everyone knows the plan before the festivities begin. 3. Eat Before Drinking Drinking on an empty stomach accelerates intoxication, which can impair your judgment faster and more severely. A sudden loss of inhibitions may increase the likelihood of making dangerous decisions,

3. such as driving while impaired. Eating a full meal before drinking can slow the absorption of alcohol in your system, reducing its immediate effects. Pairing alcohol consumption with food is one of the simplest ways to manage your alcohol intake responsibly. 4. Avoid Drinking Alone If you’re heading out alone to a bar, party, or gathering, consider staying sober. Drinking alone increases the risk of impaired judgment, and if you’re driving solo, it heightens the likelihood of an accident. You can still have a great time without consuming alcohol, and you’ll feel good knowing you’ve made the responsible choice. Stay alert and prioritize your safety when going out alone. 5. Download a Rideshare App Having a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft downloaded on your phone is an excellent backup plan for getting home safely. Even if you’ve made other transportation arrangements, plans can change unexpectedly. With a rideshare app ready to go, you’ll always have a safe and convenient way to get home. Don’t wait until you need a ride–download the app and familiarize yourself with its features in advance. 6. Be a Responsible Host If you’re hosting a party at your home, business, or property, you have a responsibility to ensure your guests do not leave your premises while impaired. Allowing a guest to drive while intoxicated can expose you to liability under Nevada negligence laws. Communicate with your guests ahead of time about staying overnight if they plan to drink. Offer them a safe place to sleep or help them arrange alternative transportation. As a host, you play a significant role in preventing impaired driving. ER Injury Attorneys Wishes You a Happy and Safe Holiday The team at ER Injury Attorneys wishes you and your family a joyous holiday. Please share the safety tips above with your family and friends to increase their safety. Should you get into an accident over the holidays, please know that we’re available to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No matter the day or the hour, we can start building a claim that will help you obtain the compensation you deserve for your injuries, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more. ER Injury Attorneys has helped injury victims in Las Vegas, Henderson, Summerlin, Boulder City, and Pahrump seek justice after accidents caused by impaired drivers. Get the elite legal representation you deserve by calling 702-878-7878 or connecting with us online via LiveChat or secure contact form. The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. Bookmark the permalink.