What You Need To Know About “Blackout Wednesday”

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What is Blackout Wednesday?

Colloquially known as “Blackout Wednesday” or “Danksgiving” among law enforcement agencies, the day before Thanksgiving has become infamous for an increase in traffic accidents, especially those involving alcohol. During this time of year, millions of people are on the roads traveling to visit loved ones, and holiday parties often, unfortunately, result in drinking and driving.

Drunk Driving Accident Statistics

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) annually hosts a campaign to reduce the number of fatal accidents on this night. From 2015 to 2019, over 135 alcohol-impaired drivers were killed and thousands more vehicle passengers suffered minor, serious, or fatal injuries.

Additionally, a 2019 report from the American College of Surgeons analyzed hospital records over the twenty-four hours of Thanksgiving day. Among the 4,533 discharged patients, 3% were fatalities, and among the 2,299 drivers who were alcohol-tested, 27% tested positive.

Keep Your Loved One Safe on Blackout Wednesday

While the statistics are startling, there are many things you can continue to do to keep your loved ones safe while traveling during the Thanksgiving holiday. Here are our top three tips:

  • Try to get to your destination earlier in the day to avoid people driving after going out to bars or parties.
  • Never get in a vehicle with someone you suspect is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • If able, make plans to stay the night where you will be consuming alcohol or have alternate options for getting home.

Ultimately, never get behind the wheel after consuming drugs or alcohol. It is still a crime, even on holidays, and can result in significant injuries for everyone involved.

Injured By A Drunk Driver? Our Attorneys Can Help

We understand the importance of keeping your family safe during the holiday season and want to help you hold negligent individuals accountable for the damages they cause. If you are seeking legal representation after becoming injured by a drunk driver, call (662) 222-0597 or fill out this short form to schedule a free consultation.

About the Author
Jefferson D. Gilder is a Partner at Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman and was admitted to the Mississippi and Tennessee Bars in 1990. Mr. Gilder is admitted to practice in all courts in Mississippi and Tennessee including Federal Court, the Fifth and Sixth Circuit Courts of Appeal, and the United States Supreme Court. Mr. Gilder's areas of practice include personal injury, criminal, medical malpractice, civil rights, and product liability. Mr. Gilder spent his first ten years as an attorney practicing with his father, Robert G. Gilder, at Gilder Law Firm in Southaven, Mississippi before forming Gilder, Howell & Assoc., P.A. with Jamie W. Howell, Jr. in June of 2000. This firm although as another legal entity has now combined their resources and experience with Chatham – Pittman, to form Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman. If you have any questions about this article, you can reach Jefferson through our contact page.