When late spring turns to summer, high school graduation season sparks celebrations among high school and college students throughout the country. Whether it’s a large-scale blowout or a gathering among a few friends, alcohol is often part of the mix. Excessive drinking among young people is always dangerous, but parties, proms and other senior-year events heighten the risk of a serious or fatal accident.

Though great strides have been made over the past few decades, more than 10,000 Americans die in alcohol-related collisions each year. This number could be greatly reduced if graduating seniors, and everyone else, took the following steps to prevent impaired driving:

• Find a designated driver or car service — For decades, partygoers have been encouraged to find a designated driver to make sure everyone gets home safely. Still, drunk driving persists. Now, ride services such as Uber and Lyft make it easier than ever to avoid unnecessary risks. Even if you believe that you might have the ability to operate a vehicle, it’s best to find someone who hasn’t been drinking at all.
• Watch out for your friends — Students, and even adults, are often hesitant to take action against someone whom they believe might be impaired. However, a moment of awkwardness is a small price to pay to protect a young person, their prospective passengers and anyone they might encounter on the road.
• Be a safe host — If you’re throwing the graduation party, make sure to have plenty of non-alcoholic options as well as food available. Don’t let anyone leave unless they are sober or being taken home by someone who is.

Using these measures to avoid intoxicated driving after graduation parties can save many lives, but not every auto accident can be avoided. If you or a family member is harmed in a vehicle collision, there are steps you need to take to protect your right to fair compensation, starting with retaining the right attorney.

Marcari, Russotto, Spencer & Balaban handles cases on behalf of people who have been injured by drunk drivers and other auto accident victims. For a free initial consultation regarding your potential case, please call (855) 435-7247 or contact us online. Our offices are located throughout the Carolinas and Virginia.