Drunk driving accidents are a significant concern in Georgia, with more than 800 crashes involving suspected impaired driving crashes occurring in one recent year, according to the Georgia Department of Transportation. The Georgia drunk driving accident attorneys at Chris Hudson Law Group want to help you avoid a potentially disastrous collision. So, if you’ve ever wondered what time most drunk driving accidents occur, we have the answers you’re looking for. You’ll find vital information on Georgia drunk driving crashes below.
When Do Most Drunk Driving Accidents Happen?
State officials do not have easy-to-find data on when drunk driving accidents are most common in Georgia. Finding the number of suspected drunk driving crashes is relatively straightforward, but identifying any patterns in when they occur is not.
Fortunately, other sources can give us some insights into the most common timeframes for drunk driving accidents. What time do most drunk driving accidents occur? Recent nationwide statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveal that of the more than 12,000 fatal alcohol-related collisions reported in one recent year, the three most common periods for these crashes were:
- 9:00 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. – 2,636 fatal crashes
- Midnight to 2:59 a.m. – 2,556 fatal crashes
- 6:00 p.m. to 8:59 p.m. – 2,247 fatal crashes
While these figures are for all drunk driving accidents nationwide, we can reasonably assume the same patterns apply to Georgia. So, most drunk driving accidents occur between 6 p.m. and 3 a.m. in Georgia. This makes sense, as these are the hours when many people drink in the evening and then get behind the wheel.
Drunk Driving Warning Signs
While it’s not always easy to identify the drunk driver near you, recognizing some common warning signs can help you avoid potential accidents. Here are some key signs to watch out for:
- Weaving or Swerving: The driver might be impaired if a car moves erratically between lanes or drifts across the road.
- Sudden Stops: A driver who makes abrupt stops without reason could be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Slow Driving: Driving significantly below the speed limit, especially without traffic or in poor weather conditions, may indicate impairment.
- Wide Turns: If a driver makes unusually wide or sharp turns, it could mean they are struggling to control their vehicle.
- Ignoring Traffic Signals: Running red lights, stop signs, or failing to yield can be signs of a drunk driver.
- Tailgating: Following other cars too closely is dangerous and can indicate impairment.
- Inconsistent Speed: Rapidly changing speeds without reason, such as speeding up and slowing down, often indicates impaired driving.
- Driving on the Wrong Side: A car on the wrong side of the road or heading into oncoming traffic is a severe warning sign.
- Delayed Reactions: Slow responses to traffic signals or the actions of other drivers can indicate impairment.
- No Headlights at Night: Driving without headlights in the dark indicates impaired judgment.
What To Do If You See a Drunk Driver
Seeing a drunk driver on the road can be frightening, but knowing what to do can help keep you safe. Here are some steps to follow if you spot a driver you suspect is impaired:
- Stay Calm and Focused: Keep your emotions in check and concentrate on driving safely.
- Keep Your Distance: Increase the space between your car and the suspected drunk driver. This gives you more time to react if they make a sudden move.
- Do Not Try to Pass: Avoid passing the impaired driver, as their erratic driving could lead to a collision.
- Note the Details: Safely observe the car’s make, model, color, and license plate number. Also, note the direction in which the car is heading.
- Pull Over Safely: When it’s safe, pull over to a secure location away from traffic.
- Call 911: Report the drunk driver to the authorities. Provide the dispatcher with the details you noted, including the location and direction of travel.
- Do Not Engage: Never try to confront or stop the drunk driver yourself. Leave it to law enforcement to handle the situation.
Taking these steps can protect yourself and help prevent a potential accident. Always prioritize safety and let professionals deal with the impaired driver.
Steps to Take If a Drunk Driver Hits You
If a drunk driver hits you, your safety and health come first. Once you’ve sought medical treatment, follow these steps to protect your rights and start your recovery.
First, call the police to report the accident. An official police report will document the incident and can be necessary for your case later. Share all details with the officers, including any signs that the other driver was impaired or driving under the influence.
Next, save any evidence that might support your claim. This includes any photos you might have taken at the scene, your medical records, receipts for the crash, and pictures of any visible injuries. If anyone else saw the accident and you got their contact information, hold onto it. Their statements can support your claim.
Notify your insurance company about the accident. Be honest and provide all necessary details but avoid apologizing or saying anything that might indicate you contributed to the crash.
Finally, consult a personal injury attorney. They can guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, and work to get you the compensation you deserve. Following these steps, you can focus on healing while your attorney handles the legal aspects.
Potential Compensation after a Drunk Driving Accident
Drunk driving accidents can cause devastating injuries and severe financial losses. It’s crucial to seek maximum compensation in legal action against an intoxicated driver. A car accident attorney can help you maximize your claim’s value and seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Reduced future earnings
- Diminished quality of life
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Damaged personal property
Contact Our Georgia Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers Now
Unsure of what time do most drunk driving accidents occur? When you drink and drive, do not forget that there is a high risk of drunk driving fatalities in the nighttime. The rates of drunk driving while intoxicated rise during the wee hours of night and early morning. You typically have two years from the date of a drunk driving crash to file a lawsuit, but getting started on your case early can help you recover maximum compensation. Chris Hudson Law Group is ready to take your case and protect your rights with our team of lawyers. Call (706) 863-6600 now or complete our contact form for a free consultation with our Georgia car accident lawyers.