Georgia Injury Law Blog
The day before Thanksgiving is famously the biggest travel day in the US. Unfortunately, that Wednesday evening is also a big night for bar hopping and binge drinking for young adults, also referred to as “Blackout Wednesday.” The combination of high road traffic and elevated DUI rates leads to a spike in fatalities. Between 2019-2022, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) reported that drunk driving accidents occurred at a 40% increase during the holidays, and 2021 saw 1,247 fatalities between Thanksgiving and New Years’ due to alcohol-related accidents. In 2025, the potential for incidents has increased, as AAA expects 73 million people on the road for Thanksgiving, a 1.3 million increase from 2024. This number could even rise if more flights continue to be canceled.
Before you get on the road, there are several factors to keep in mind:
- Dram Laws: Establishments which serve alcohol have duties to the public through what is called “dram laws.” This applies not only to bars and liquor stores, but also to event spaces serving alcohol, restaurants, convenience stores, and even grocery stores. Dram laws state that owners or servers of these establishments may be held partially liable if a drunk driver injures another party. The following must apply in order for a dram shop lawsuit to take effect:
- The server or owner noticed that a person was intoxicated when serving him or her
- They had reason to believe the person would be operating a motor vehicle
- This person went on to cause injury to a third party as a result of an accident
- Police report: in case of a motor vehicle accident, always get a police report, especially if you suspect the other driver to be under the influence.
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: in case of a hit-and-run, it is crucial to have uninsured motorist coverage. Call your insurance provider now to check and make sure you are covered in case of a hit-and-run accident, and ask if your policy covers bodily injuries in such cases.
- Call a trusted legal professional: if the worst happens, don’t try to protect yourself without legal counsel.
Stay safe this holiday weekend, and have a happy Thanksgiving!
The Atlanta car accident lawyers at Katz Personal Injury Lawyers are dedicated to the representation of persons who have suffered injuries in car accidents in the metro Atlanta region and across the state of Georgia. If you or a loved one have suffered injuries in a car accident, talk to a lawyer at our firm, and discuss your legal options for a claim for damages. You may qualify for compensation that includes medical expenses, lost income and other forms of damages. Talk to an attorney at our firm and discuss your case. Initial consultations are free.