As Memorial Day weekend approaches, many New Mexico residents are looking forward to celebrating the unofficial start of summer with barbecues, outdoor activities, and gatherings with friends and family. However, even while you’re planning to celebrate, it’s important to remember that Memorial Day weekend is also one of the deadliest holidays for drunk driving accidents in New Mexico.
The Dangers of Drunk Driving on Memorial Day Weekend
Memorial Day weekend is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and millions of Americans hit the road to celebrate. Unfortunately, this increased traffic, combined with the holiday’s association with alcohol consumption, leads to a surge in drunk driving accidents and fatalities.
In New Mexico, the problem is particularly severe. The state consistently ranks among the worst in the nation for drunk driving deaths per capita, and Memorial Day weekend is a tragic reminder of the consequences of impaired driving.
Preventing Drunk Driving Accidents on Memorial Day Weekend
While law enforcement agencies across New Mexico will be out in force during Memorial Day weekend, conducting sobriety checkpoints and increasing patrols to catch drunk drivers, preventing these tragic accidents starts with individual responsibility. If you plan to celebrate with alcohol this Memorial Day weekend, follow these tips to keep yourself and others safe:
- Designate a sober driver before the festivities begin, or plan to use a ride-sharing service, taxi, or public transportation to get home.
- If you’ve overindulged and haven’t made arrangements to get safely home, get a taxi or rideshare to a nearby hotel and spend a safe night.
- If you’re hosting a party, offer non-alcoholic beverages and make sure your guests have a safe way to get home if they’ve been drinking.
- If you see someone who appears to be impaired and is about to drive, take their keys and help them find a safe alternative way home.
- Always wear your seat belt, as it’s your best defense against drunk drivers on the road.
By making responsible choices and looking out for one another, we can all do our part to reduce the number of drunk driving accidents and fatalities on New Mexico’s roads this Memorial Day weekend.
What to Do if You’re Injured by a Drunk Driver
If you or a loved one is injured by a drunk driver during Memorial Day weekend or any other time, it’s important to know your legal rights. In New Mexico, drunk driving accident victims may be entitled to compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
However, pursuing a drunk driving accident claim can be complex, especially when you’re dealing with insurance companies that may try to minimize or deny your claim. That’s why it’s critical to work with an experienced New Mexico drunk driving accident attorney who can fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Hunt Law Firm Today
If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver in Santa Fe, Albuquerque, or anywhere in Northern New Mexico, contact Hunt Law Firm today for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your legal options, and work diligently to hold those who harmed you responsible and secure the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
This Memorial Day weekend, as we honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country, let’s also remember the importance of keeping our roads safe by preventing drunk driving. By making responsible choices and seeking experienced legal representation when accidents occur, we can reduce the devastating impact of drunk driving on New Mexico’s communities.