Safety Tips for the New Year

The New Year is a time to refresh and reset. Whether your New Year plans include a big party or a night with family,  keeping a few safety tips in mind is important. Carry these safety tips with you throughout the year to keep your family safe.

The Consequences of a DUI are Never Worth the Risk

A DUI can have life-changing consequences, both financially and emotionally. A DUI in Pennsylvania can lead to expensive fines, a suspended driver’s license, probation, and even required jail time. Some offenders may also be required to install an ignition interlock device into their vehicle, which tests their blood alcohol content (BAC) every time they get behind the wheel.

The consequences of a DUI are never worth the risk. It may seem like a hassle to download a rideshare app and make an account, but considering the implications of a DUI, it’s worth it. If you drink and then drive, you could also injure someone else. You could even be subject to a personal injury lawsuit that affects your financial situation. If your New Year’s Eve plans include attending a party, make sure you have a safe ride home.

Teach Your Kids Safety Tips

The New Year is also a good time to prioritize safety lessons for kids. Older teens may be celebrating the holiday with friends for the first time. Be sure to talk to them about the risks of teen drinking and the potential legal consequences. This is also a good time to talk about firework safety, especially if your child is attending a party with fireworks.

Plan Ahead

Planning ahead is the best way to stay safe on New Year’s Eve and into the New Year. Think about your plans ahead of time and any obstacles that may come up. Consider booking a hotel room if you plan on drinking. Check the weather before leaving to attend any parties. The holiday season in Pennsylvania can get snowy and icy, which can quickly turn the roads into a dangerous situation.

Avoid the Temptation of Distractions

Distracted driving can be just as dangerous as driving while under the influence. Make it a point to avoid distractions on New Year’s Eve and all year long. Sync your phone to a hands-free system in your car to easily answer phone calls or text messages. If your vehicle doesn’t have hands-free capabilities, turn off your phone or set it to silent before getting behind the wheel.

This is also a good time to talk with teens about the dangers of distracted driving.

Stay Safe on New Year’s Eve and All Year Long

Planning ahead is the best way to keep everyone safe this holiday season. Leaving your vehicle at home will ensure that you don’t get behind the wheel after drinking alcoholic beverages. Making a backup plan, like booking a hotel room or downloading a rideshare app, also gives you safer options. This is also a good time to discuss safety tips and backup plans with your children, especially teens who may be celebrating outside of the home.

Contact a Meadville Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Case in Pennsylvania

Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to an accident in Pennsylvania? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C. represent clients injured because of an accident in Meadville, Harborcreek, Millcreek, Erie, and throughout Pennsylvania. Call (814) 402-8826 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 2525 W 26th St, Erie, PA 16506, as well as offices in Meadville and North East, PA.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.