August 27, 2025
People make poor decisions about driving all the time. Some people even choose to drive drunk, despite the legal risk and potential for injury. The knowledge that drunk driving is illegal and unsafe is nearly universal. However, many people think they can drive drunk without getting caught or that their skill while driving drunk allows them to avoid police detection.
Others may not even realize that they are over the legal limit and cannot drive safely. Whatever the reason for a drunk driver getting behind the wheel, they put everyone else at risk. Some people are drunk early in the morning or in the early afternoon. Drivers can encounter a drunk motorist at any time.
There are certain times when the chances of a drunk driving crash occurring are higher than usual. Motorists who limit their driving when the drunk driving risk is highest can help protect themselves and their loved ones from potentially devastating wrecks. When are people most likely to encounter drunk drivers on public roads?
Around Major Holidays
When looking at statistics about fatal drunk driving crashes, there tend to be significant increases around major holidays. Summer holidays, including Labor Day, Memorial Day and Independence Day, often involve barbecues and alcohol. They are there for some of the most dangerous days to be on the road.
Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day are also days with unusually high levels of drunk driving fatalities. Minimizing time spent on the road on potentially dangerous federal holidays could help people reduce their risk of encountering intoxicated motorists.
In The Evening as Venues Close
Drunk driving collisions tend to be more common in the late evening and early morning hours. Many people stay out drinking until they absolutely need to go home, possibly because an establishment closes for the evening.
Others wait until the sun sets because they assume they can drive home undetected while encountering fewer vehicles on the road. Friday and Saturday evenings are among the most dangerous times for motorists when looking at the likelihood of a drunk driving collision.
If someone under the influence causes a crash, they may be liable for the harm they cause others. Pursuing a car crash compensation claim can help people affected by drunk drivers hold such drivers accountable.









