Drunk driving is one of the biggest safety concerns on Georgia roads. State police officers and prosecutors tend to be very assertive in taking action against those accused of driving under the influence (DUI) offenses.
There are some days when the risks associated with drunk driving are statistically higher than others. As such, the chances of police encounters are also higher on those particular days. When looking at nationwide and state collision data from the last few years, certain trends start to stand out regarding when risk is higher.
What days are among the safest and riskiest in terms of drunk driving in Georgia?
The holidays are consistently dangerous
There is a well-known, long-term statistical correlation between drunk driving fatalities and major federal holidays. Every year, there are fluctuations in which days are the most dangerous. Many years, the 4th of July is one of the most dangerous days to be on the road.
However, given the 2022 crash data, researchers suspect that New Year’s Day may be one of the most dangerous days for drunk driving in Georgia in 2024. Other high-risk days include Cinco de Mayo and the four-day Thanksgiving weekend.
Not only are crash rates much higher on these particular days, but the chances of getting arrested are higher as well. There may be more police officers out doing individual patrols and more local police departments setting up roadblocks across the state.
Special events are also more dangerous
Local police departments know that concerts, sporting events and even graduations tend to involve celebrations for people may overindulge with alcohol. As such, they may heighten their enforcement efforts around these special dates. They may also set up checkpoints right by a stadium or concert venue to catch people leaving after drinking too much.
Georgia is very assertive about enforcing drunk driving laws. In 2022, the state recorded 507 drunk driving deaths, which actually made it one of the safest states based on drunk driving collisions. Those involved in even minor fender benders after special events can anticipate police officers scrutinizing them for signs of intoxication. The safest days include weekdays during the winter that aren’t actual holidays or adjacent to them.
Drivers arrested on DUI allegations may need help as they prepare to fight those charges. Knowing when encounters with the police are most likely can help people minimize their risk of prosecution. Those who do end up arrested may need help developing a defense strategy based on the unique circumstances leading to their arrest.