December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month

Alcohol-related driving accidents account for nearly a third of traffic fatalities. This amounted to 10,322 deaths in 2012; of these, 239 were children up to 14 years old. In addition to drunk driving accidents, drugs other than alcohol were involved in 18% of motor vehicle fatalities.

Despite knowing the dangers of getting behind the wheel while impaired by alcohol or drugs — whether illegal or prescription — too many Americans continue to do so.

December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, dedicated to eliminating these senseless tragedies. The Houston drunk driving accident lawyers at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris are helping spread the word and raise awareness of this issue.

As the holiday season gets under way, many of us will attend events where alcohol is in quick supply, including company parties, family get-together, and gatherings with friends. Before you head out, be sure to have your ride home covered in the event that you decide to have a drink.

Designate a sober driver, plan for a taxi, or call a family member to pick you up if you’ve been drinking. If a safe ride isn’t available, stay where you are until you are sober. And don’t just look out for your own sobriety; if you see others who are too impaired to drive, take steps to make sure they don’t get behind the wheel.

The Texas auto injury lawyers at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, L.L.P., Accident & Injury Lawyers wish you a safe and happy holiday season.