“The holidays are an ideal time for traveling to see family and friends. It’s a time to celebrate but when the party is over, many drivers get behind the wheel- alcohol impaired,” said Dustyn Shroff, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent auto insurance agency.
AAA reports Thanksgiving weekend as the most dangerous holiday for travel. This year they estimate an increase in holiday travel. You will have to operate with more caution as they approximate 47 million will be traveling over Thanksgiving, the most since 2007. Driving continues to be the most preferred method of transportation for travelers, thanks to low gas prices.
USA Today recently highlighted a poll that revealed many drivers are unaware that the legal drinking limit is.08 blood alcohol content or higher. While GreatFlorida Insurance represents auto insurance carriers that can provide auto insurance that can help in tough circumstances, suffering the consequences of a DUI can destructively change your life.
The night before Thanksgiving is sometimes referred to as “Black Wednesday,” or “Drinksgiving” because it is one of the busiest nights of the year at bars. DUI arrests are at their highest between Thanksgiving and the end of New Year’s weekend. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism reports 40 percent of traffic related deaths during Christmas and New Year’s involve drunk drivers.
Impairment begins with the first drink. Once you begin to drink it is easy to underestimate alcohol’s lingering effect. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism reveals alcohol continues to influence the brain and body after you have your last call. “Even after someone stops drinking, alcohol in the stomach and intestine continues to enter the bloodstream, impairing judgement and coordination for hours.”
The key is to make sure to have a plan in place if you decide to have a drink at a gathering. Keep tabs on the number of drinks you consume. Try drinking water or another non-alcoholic beverage between drinks. Have a designated driver or alternative ride home, a friend, cab or ride share company.
GreatFlorida Insurance wants all our customers to safely and responsibly enjoy the holiday season. We provide comprehensive car insurance at great rates. Our agents will compare car insurance from several reputable companies across the U.S. to find an auto policy suitable for you.
