School is out, the sun is shining, and it is the first national holiday of the summer. Memorial Day was first celebrated on May 30, 1868, to commemorate the sacrifices of soldiers who died in the Civil War, it has since expanded to honor all fallen members of the U.S. Military. Unfortunately, in modern times, Memorial Day has become one of the most dangerous travel holidays of the year. This time of year represents a perfect storm for dangerous behavior. Americans love to fire up the grill for long weekends, and washing down their burgers and brats with an ice-cold beer is about as picturesque a way to enjoy the day as one can imagine. But when the sun goes down and it is time to head home is when the danger comes.
The National Safety Council estimates there will be approximately 469 traffic fatalities in the U.S. for this year’s Memorial Day. On average, roughly 40% of those deaths are due to alcohol-impaired accidents, compared to an average of 29% of alcohol-impaired fatalities for the rest of the year’s 3-day weekends. Because Memorial Day is viewed as the kickoff to summer, nearly 40 million Americans are on the road travelling at least 50 miles for camping, the beach, or to hit the lake. With so many more people on the roads an increase in accidents is bound to happen, add alcohol into the mix and there is an increased risk of serious harm. We at Brandt Kettwick Defense hope you have a wonderful Memorial Day Weekend with your friends and family, but if you plan on enjoying a few beverages with your BBQ, please ensure that you have a safe and sober ride.
If you find yourself or someone you know charged with a DWI this Memorial Day Weekend, give us a call and we can help – (763) 421-6366.