For many, the three-day Labor Day weekend is the last piece of summer before the school year gets into full swing.  There are festivals, parades, barbecues, and fireworks for you to enjoy as summer turns into fall.  However, Labor Day weekend is dangerous weekend for drivers on the road.

According to The National Safety Council (NSC), an average of 400 Americans are involved in fatal car accidents over the Labor Day weekend every year and an additional 49,000 people are involved in non-fatal car accidents.

Why Do Labor Day Weekend Accidents Happen?

Spikes in holiday weekend car accidents can occur for a number of reasons, such as alcohol consumption, additional roadway traffic, and distracted driving.  For Labor Day weekend, many crashes involve alcohol consumption, due to the festive nature of the holiday, and the readily accessible alcohol at parties and barbecues.

Tips on How to Ensure a Safer Labor Day Weekend

The attorneys at Azrael Franz have compiled a few tips to ensure that you have an enjoyable and safe holiday weekend:

• Designate an alcohol and drug-free driver
• Get plenty of sleep before getting behind the wheel of a vehicle
• Drive during daylight hours for optimal visibility
• Allow extra time to reach your destination, and be prepared to drive slowly
• Avoid distractions—such as cell phones and maps while you drive
• Ensure everyone in the vehicle is using their seat belt properly

What Should I do After a Drunk Driving Accident?

When a drunk driving accident happens, it is important to take certain steps that can help a future claim. If you are unfortunately involved in a DUI accident, the first step is to call the necessary emergency services.  This includes medical services and the police. While the police can draft an official report that details the accident, it is still important for you to gather your own evidence. This can include pictures, video, and witnesses information.

How Long Do I Have to Pursue Legal Action?

After an accident, you can pursue legal action against the negligent party who caused your injuries.  It is important to know that those who wish to do so should not wait long because there is a deadline in Maryland known as the statute of limitations. If you fail to meet this deadline, you may lose their chance to pursue legal action and recover compensation. In the state of Maryland, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of the injury.

Contact a Knowledgeable Attorney Today

While these tips may be helpful, there are still drivers on the road who will not follow proper safety protocol while operating a vehicle.  If you, or someone you love, was involved in a car accident, it may be in your best interest to pursue legal action. The attorneys at Azrael Franz have extensive experience dealing with drunk, reckless, or negligent drivers who put their safety, and the safety of others on the road, at risk. Our experience includes a recent $3.5 million DUI crash settlement.  Our compassionate and relentless attorneys will assist you in understanding your rights, filing your claim, and pursuing legal action against a reckless driver.  We are here to help.

Contact us today for a free consultation.