Summer in Washington, D.C. is a time for celebration. From Fourth of July fireworks on the National Mall to backyard barbecues, rooftop parties, and local festivals, the season offers countless opportunities to unwind and enjoy the warmer months. But with increased festivities comes a heightened risk on the road, particularly from driving under the influence (DUI).
At Simeone & Miller, LLP, we are dedicated to promoting public safety and supporting those affected by impaired driving. In this blog, we’ll explore how DUI incidents spike in the summer, tips for prevention, and what to do if you’re injured in a DUI-related accident in Washington, D.C.
The Summer Surge in DUI Incidents
Summer holidays, such as Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day, are historically associated with spikes in drunk driving accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the summer months rank among the deadliest on U.S. roads due to increased alcohol consumption and travel.
In urban areas like Washington, D.C., the combination of outdoor events, vacation travel, and relaxed social settings leads to more people drinking — and, unfortunately, more people making the dangerous choice to drive afterward.
Why DUI Is So Dangerous
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment, slows reaction time, and affects motor skills — all of which are critical for safe driving. Even small amounts of alcohol can impair your ability to respond to hazards, maintain your lane, or judge distances.
In Washington, D.C., a driver can be charged with a DUI if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. However, impairment can occur well before this legal threshold, especially in younger or smaller individuals.
DUI Prevention Tips for Summer Events
Preventing DUI-related accidents starts with smart decisions — both for yourself and those around you. Here are practical ways to stay safe this summer:
Designate a Sober Driver
Plan ahead by assigning someone in your group to stay sober and handle driving duties. This simple step can save lives.
Use Rideshare Services or Public Transit
Washington, D.C., offers a wide range of transportation options, including Metro, buses, taxis, and rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft. If you’re drinking, leave your car at home.
Host Responsibly
If you’re throwing a party, consider offering non-alcoholic beverages, limiting alcohol service toward the end of the event, and helping guests arrange safe rides home.
Stay Overnight
If you’re attending a gathering far from home, consider staying overnight at a friend’s place or booking a nearby hotel to avoid driving after drinking.
Know the Signs of Impairment
Be aware of the signs that someone should not be driving, including slurred speech, unsteady movements, or aggressive behavior. If you suspect someone is impaired, take their keys and help them find a safer way home.
Look Out for Others
Sometimes the most responsible thing you can do is to intervene. If someone you know is about to drive drunk, don’t hesitate to speak up. You may be preventing a serious accident or saving a life.
Legal Options After a DUI Accident
If you or a loved one is injured in a crash caused by a drunk driver, you have legal rights. In Washington, D.C., victims of DUI accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to hold the impaired driver accountable for reckless behavior.
At Simeone & Miller, LLP, we understand the devastating consequences of DUI accidents. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are committed to helping victims secure the compensation they need to recover and rebuild. We conduct thorough investigations, work with accident reconstruction experts, and negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to pursue justice on your behalf.
Washington, D.C.’s DUI Laws
D.C. enforces strict penalties for DUI, including license suspension, fines, and jail time, especially for repeat offenders. In civil cases, a criminal conviction can help support a personal injury claim, but it’s not necessary. You can still file a lawsuit against an impaired driver even if they were not charged or convicted criminally.
What to Do If A Drunk Driver Injures You
If you are involved in an accident with a suspected drunk driver, take the following steps:
- Call 911 and report the crash.
- Seek immediate medical attention for your injuries.
- Document the scene by taking photos and collecting witness information if possible.
- Avoid speaking with the at-fault driver’s insurance company before speaking with an attorney.
- Contact Simeone & Miller, LLP for a free case evaluation.
Protecting Our Community, One Case at a Time
Summer should be a season of fun and freedom, not tragedy. By making responsible choices and knowing your legal options, you can help keep Washington, D.C., safer for everyone. If a drunk or impaired driver has injured you, contact Simeone & Miller, LLP to stand by your side and fight for the justice you deserve.
