While 1-35E and 1-35W are invaluable to some Dallas drivers for the necessity of transportation, I-35 and numerous other Texas roads have proven to be incredibly dangerous for many commuters. Unfortunately, these same roads used by law-abiding citizens for the convenience of transportation are also a place for drunk drivers to wreak havoc on the innocent. According the U.S. Center for Disease Control, nearly 30 people in the United States die every day as a result of a drunk driver. In 2011 alone, there were 1,074 fatal DUI-related accidents in Dallas, according to the Texas Department of Transportation.
If you’re a Dallas resident, knowing when and on what roads you’re most likely to be hit by a drunk driver is important to help arm you with precautionary measures for ensuring your safety on public roads. For a look at the time of day, specific holidays, or days of the week that you’re most likely to be hit, read on:
Time of Day and Day of Week: Dallas Drunk Driving
The Texas Department of Transportation has published a thorough report on both the time of day and the day of the week that people are most likely to be hit by a drunk driver.
Based on data collected in 2011, Saturday and Sunday were the days reported with both the highest number of total crashes as a result of a drunk driver and the days reported with highest number of total fatal crashes as a result of a drunk driver. On both days, the majority of accidents occurred between the hours of 6:00 PM and 4:00 AM. The data supports the fact that you’re more susceptible to being hit by a drunk driver during evening and night commutes on the weekend.
Specific Holidays are Common For Drunk Drivers
It’s no surprise that the rate of accidents that occur as a result of drunk drivers is higher during the holidays than it is on standard calendar days. Roads are more congested due to holiday commuters and many travelers integrate alcohol into their holiday celebrations – a formula for disaster.
In Texas in 2011, January 1st, or New Year’s Day, authorities documented 7 fatal crashes and 7 fatalities; there were 5 fatal crashes and 5 fatalities on New Year’s Eve; there were 4 fatal crashes and 4 fatalities on the 4th of July; and there were 10 fatal crashes and 10 fatalities during Halloween weekend. Not coincidentally, these fatality numbers are larger than daily averages.
Cities and Towns that Are Prone to Texas DUIs
Some cities and towns in Texas are more prone to DUIs than others. In 2011, here are the cities and towns that experienced the highest number of automobile accidents related to drunk driving:
- Abilene, 138
- Amarillo, 142
- Arlington, 434
- Austin, 1,184
- Corpus Christi, 313
- Dallas, 1,431
- Denton, 152
- El Paso, 707
- Fort Worth, 637
- Garland, 171
- Grand Prairie, 163
- Houston, 1,512
- Irving, 222
- Lewisville, 140
- Lubbock, 325
- McAllen, 172
- Midland, 170
- Odessa, 172
- Pasadena, 167
- Plano, 229
- San Antonio, 1,811
Who’s At Risk When There is a Drunk Driver?
According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control, the majority of those involved in alcohol-related fatalities are young people between the ages of 21 and 24 years of age (34%); those between the ages of 25 to 34 (30%); and those between the ages of 35 to 44 (25%). There is clear indication here that younger age groups are more at risk of being involved in a fatal accident involving a drunk driver. Unfortunately, no age group is immune to the potential pain and suffering that can be caused by a drunk driver.
Given the prevalence of drunk driving-related accidents it’s important for Dallas drivers to employ precautionary measures every time they’re on the road. However, precautionary driving is no guarantee that you will not be hit by a drunk driver.
Contact Tate Law Offices, P.C.: Dallas Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver and injured in an accident then it’s important for you to understand your rights to best maximize your compensation in court. Call 888-662-3892 or contact Tate Law Offices, P.C., today for a free initial consultation of your case.
Tate Law Offices, P.C., is committed to fighting for the recovery of victims in Dallas involved in drunk driving crashes. Our firm of seasoned DUI accident lawyers understands the complexities involved in these unique cases and has both the experience and skill to tackle any challenges that may arise. Call us today at 888-662-3892 to start on the road to your recovery.