Three-day weekends can provide Erie residents with myriad opportunities to get out and have some fun. However, holiday weekends can also pose extra dangers on the road as some drivers get behind the wheel while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Impaired drivers put themselves, their passengers and all other road users in danger.
This is why many Pennsylvania police departments plan to crack down on impaired drivers through the Labor Day weekend. The plan is to have both roving patrols and stationary check points operating statewide. When it comes to fatal alcohol-related auto accidents, Labor Day has proven to be the most deadly of all holidays. In fact, Labor Day 2014 saw 15 fatalities in alcohol-related accidents in the state.
But also of concern are those who drive while under the influence of prescription drugs. A high ranking official of the Pennsylvania DUI Association states that while most drivers are aware of the dangers of drinking and driving, some do not understand that prescription and even over the counter drugs can also render a person unfit to drive.
This plan for enforcement of drunk and drugged driving laws should be greeted as good news for those who want to stay safe as they travel during the holiday. Yet, in spite of the best effort of the police, there will likely still be impaired motorists taking to the roads over the holiday.
Victims of car accidents caused by impaired drivers could suffer very serious injuries. If you are injured in a car crash, you may have to spend a prolonged period of time in recovery while contending with costly medical bills. A Pennsylvania motor vehicle accident attorney may be able to help you get the compensation you need by working to get you a fair settlement.