The festive month of December is a time of fun and togetherness. But it is also a time when people drink more alcohol than normal. This can lead to dangerous situations, such as driving under the influence.
Driving bans and fines
In the Netherlands, it is prohibited to drive under the influence of alcohol. The blood alcohol level may not exceed 0.5 per mille. If you are arrested under the influence, you risk a fine, a driving ban, and, in some cases, even a prison sentence.
Increased risk of accidents
Driving under the influence significantly increases the risk of accidents. Alcohol negatively affects your reaction time, concentration, and judgment. This makes you less able to respond to unexpected situations.
More accidents during the holidays
The police conduct extra checks for driving under the influence during the holidays. Research shows that significantly more accidents involving alcohol occur during the holidays.
The largest number of accidents occurred during Christmas and New Year’s Eve
The weekend before Christmas is the weekend with the highest number of accidents involving alcohol. On average, 42 accidents involving alcohol occur every day. During the New Year, this share is even 29% higher, resulting in an average of 45 accidents per day.
Personal injury
If you are involved in a traffic accident where the other driver was under the influence, you are entitled to compensation. This compensation may consist of compensation for medical costs, material damage, non-material damage and loss of income.
Tips for driving safely during the holidays
If you have consumed alcohol during the holidays, it is important not to drive. You can ask someone else to take you home, or take a taxi or public transport.
Other tips for driving safely during the holidays:
- Plan in advance how you will get home.
- Do not drink more than 1 glass of alcohol per hour.
- Eat something before you drive.
- Be extra alert to unexpected situations.
Contact MCJ Advocatuur
If you have been involved in a traffic accident where the other driver was under the influence, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. MCJ Advocatuur is a specialist in personal injury and can help you claim compensation. Contact us for advice, without obligation.