When Do Most DUI Accidents Occur?

Driving under the influence (DUI) remains one of the leading causes of traffic accidents in the United States, resulting in countless injuries and fatalities each year. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about one-third of all fatal crashes in the U.S. involve alcohol impairment. Furthermore, more than half of drivers involved in serious injury and fatal collisions tested positive for at least one drug. Despite ongoing public awareness campaigns and strict DUI laws, impaired driving continues to be a pervasive issue.

Alcohol and drugs can severely impact a person’s ability to drive safely. These substances slow reflexes, impair vision, and make responding to changing road conditions difficult. Arash Law compiled data from the NHTSA and other trusted sources to identify the deadliest days, weeks, and holidays for driving under the influence (DUI) from 2018 to 2022.

Certain times of the day, days of the week, and specific events or holidays see a noticeable spike in DUI-related crashes. In particular, most DUI accidents occur on weekend nights, mainly between midnight and 3 a.m. This is when people are leaving bars, parties, or other social events where alcohol and drugs are commonly consumed.

DUI Accident Patterns And Trends

DUI accidents can happen at any time of day, but some hours are riskier than others. The period between midnight and 3 a.m., especially on weekends, is when most DUI crashes occur. During this time, many drivers are impaired by alcohol or drugs, making it the most dangerous time to be on the road.

In fact, during those late-night hours, a large number of car accidents involve drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of .08 or higher. In 2022, there were 1,752 crashes between midnight and 3 a.m. alone.

The summer months also see a spike in alcohol-impaired crashes. In 2022, July had the highest number of DUI accidents, with about 1,223 crashes involving impaired drivers. This statistic suggests that late nights and summer celebrations contribute to the higher risk of incidents.

If you’ve been affected by a DUI accident, consulting experienced car accident lawyers can help you navigate the complexities of your case and seek appropriate compensation. Their expertise can make a crucial difference in understanding your rights and ensuring you receive the support you need.

Deadliest Holidays For DUIs

Certain holidays are hazardous when it comes to DUI accidents. These times of celebration often involve alcohol and drugs (whether prescription or illegal), which increases the risk of impaired driving.

Driving safely during the holidays is imperative. Financial services provider Moneygeek has analyzed historical data from the U.S. Department of Transportation and the NHTSA. Using this information, Moneygeek determined that the following holidays cause the most DUI incidents:

• New Year’s Day — This is the deadliest holiday of the year for drunk driving. On New Year’s Eve, there’s a much higher chance of drunk driving, leading to a fatal accident rate that is 89% higher than usual. Unlike other holidays that spread out over days, New Year’s is just one night, with many people driving home in the early hours of New Year’s Day.
• Labor Day — The likelihood of running into drunk drivers on the weekend before Labor Day and on the holiday itself was 53% higher than the usual rate. Over the 2024 Labor Day weekend, the California Highway Patrol reported 190 DUI accidents and nearly 1,400 arrests statewide. With heavy traffic and frequent gatherings, this holiday is one of the most dangerous weekends of the year.
• Fourth Of July — July 4th is the third most dangerous holiday, with a 46% higher chance of accidents than an average day.
• Memorial Day — Memorial Day weekend closely followed, ranking in fourth place for dangerous holidays. During this weekend, the risk of accidents was elevated by 45% compared to the average day. This increased risk is likely due to the heightened travel and celebrations that mark the long weekend, making it a time when drivers need to be particularly cautious on the roads.

Deadliest Day Of The Week For DUI Accidents

An analysis of DUI fatalities from 2018 to 2022 revealed that Saturday was the most dangerous day to drive, accounting for over 22% (11,895) of all DUI-related accidents. Sunday follows, accounting for 20% (11,113) of collisions. A considerable proportion of these Sunday incidents occurred after midnight, adding to the high fatality rate.

Here’s a graph illustrating fatal DUI-related crashes for each day of the week from 2018 to 2022:

However, Tuesday was the least dangerous day, with fewer DUI accidents reported compared to other days. This day saw the fewest occurrences, with only 5,384 fatal crashes during the period. Even so, collisions still happen, and the consequences can be life-changing for victims and their families.

If you or a loved one has been involved in such a collision, you should speak with experienced attorneys who represent DUI victims. They can help you understand your rights, hold the responsible party accountable, and confidently handle the legal process.

Deadliest Weeks Of The Year For DUI Accidents

Between 2018 and 2022, the first week of September, which typically includes Labor Day, recorded the highest number of DUI fatalities, totaling 1,278. Close behind, the fourth week of August ranked as the third deadliest, with 1,208 DUI-related deaths. These periods coincide with end-of-summer festivities, such as barbecues and gatherings.

The first week of July, including Independence Day, was the second most hazardous week for drunk driving, with 1,229 fatalities. The week of Memorial Day, falling in the fourth week of May, was the fourth most dangerous, with 1,195 DUI-related deaths. This increase is linked to heightened travel, outdoor activities, and social events during these times.

Factors Influencing Timing Of Drunk Driving Accidents

Timing plays a significant role in drunk driving incidents, with specific periods showing higher risks due to various contributing elements. Recognizing these periods can help in understanding and mitigating the dangers associated with drunk driving. Certain times of the year, events, and days of the week can increase the likelihood of such incidents due to a combination of social behaviors, celebrations, and environmental factors. Here are the common factors that heighten the risk of drunk driving accidents:

Last Call (Hours Of Sale)

In California, the final call for alcohol is usually at 2 a.m., and many people hit the road soon after, often still intoxicated. This late-night hour, particularly between midnight and 3 a.m., sees a spike in DUI accidents as people drive home after drinking.

Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill in September 2024 allowing a private club in the Los Angeles Clippers’ new arena, the Intuit Dome, to serve alcohol until 4 a.m. This exception to the usual 2 a.m. last call is limited to about 100 club members in private suites after game days and concerts. The decision has sparked debate, with critics arguing it could lead to increased drunk driving and crime, while supporters believe it will help businesses recover financially after the pandemic.

Furthermore, starting in 2025, California may launch a program that allows additional establishments in a qualified city to sell alcohol beyond the current closing times, potentially increasing the number of intoxicated drivers on the road.

This situation raises concerns about the safety of all road users. If you’ve been injured in an accident due to a drunk driver, it’s essential to seek legal assistance. Contact the best DUI victim lawyers, as they can provide crucial support in navigating the legal process, offering peace of mind and helping you secure the compensation needed to rebuild your life.

Special Occasions

Certain moments, like holidays, birthdays, and personal milestones, are perfect for toasting and enjoying a drink with friends and family. These occasions enhance the festive atmosphere and often make drinking more acceptable. During these times, people tend to drink more than usual, raising the risk of driving under the influence. This is especially common on Friday and Saturday nights when social gatherings are more frequent.

A survey revealed that 83% of respondents viewed birthdays as a fitting time for a drink, while fewer associated celebrating personal fitness achievements with alcohol. This finding shows how social and cultural norms influence alcohol consumption during special events.

Weather-Related Hazards

Weather influences the timing and severity of accidents. Adverse weather can reduce visibility and make roads slippery, creating dangerous road conditions. When combined with alcohol or drug impairment, a driver’s ability to react quickly and safely in these challenging situations is further compromised, increasing the likelihood of a traffic accident. Impaired drivers may struggle with maintaining vehicle control, navigating curves, or braking in time to prevent rear-end collisions.

Some weather-related hazards to watch out for include:

• Snow And Ice — These elements can make roads slippery and increase your stopping distance.
• Fog — Thick fog, especially in areas like the Central Valley, can limit visibility, making it harder to see other vehicles and road signs.
• Heavy Rain — Wet roads can lead to hydroplaning, which may result in a loss of vehicle control. Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water on the road surface prevents the tires from making full contact with the pavement, causing the vehicle to slide and lose traction.
• Construction Zones — Construction zones can increase the risk of accidents, particularly if drivers are not fully attentive to the road. The presence of detours, reduced speed limits, and changing conditions can distract drivers, making vigilance essential for safety.

In these situations, it is advisable to work with accident attorneys who have experience with DUI cases. They can evaluate your case and determine if there was contributory negligence.

Areas Where Drunk Driving Accidents Are Most Common

In 2022, the NHTSA’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) recorded 13,524 deaths in alcohol-impaired crashes. Of these, 60.23% (8,110) happened in urban areas, while 39.77% (5,355) occurred in rural areas.

However, while rural areas see fewer accidents overall, they still present unique risks. Longer road stretches can lead to speeding or loss of control by impaired drivers, and slower emergency response times can make accidents more severe.

According to 2021 data from UC Berkeley, here are the top five California counties with the highest number of fatalities and serious injuries:

1. Los Angeles — 914
2. San Bernardino — 399
3. San Diego — 369
4. Riverside — 363
5. Sacramento — 262

Here are additional findings on the most common areas for DUI accidents, as indicated in the same report.

• Principal arterials accounted for 28% of all fatal alcohol-impaired collisions.
• Minor arterials, followed by interstates, were the second and third most prevalent crash locations in alcohol-related fatal crashes, accounting for 19% and 17%, respectively.
• Major collectors, local streets, minor collectors, other freeways, and expressways comprise the remaining 36%.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, working with experienced DUI victim lawyers can make all the difference. They can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and pursue the compensation you deserve to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and more.

How Alcohol And Drugs Cause Accidents

According to the NHTSA, about 32% of fatal crashes are attributed to drunk driving, and 56% of drivers involved in collisions resulting in injury were found to have at least one drug in their system. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs considerably increases the likelihood of an accident. These substances may impair driving skills, making it more difficult for drivers to respond to road hazards, make informed decisions, and keep control of their vehicles.

If drivers are under the influence of alcohol, they may experience:

• Reduced Coordination — Alcohol slows down motor skills, making it difficult to steer, brake, or accelerate properly.
• Impaired Judgment — Decision-making becomes compromised, increasing the likelihood of risky maneuvers or poor reaction to traffic conditions.
• Slower Reaction Time — Alcohol delays how quickly drivers respond to sudden hazards, like a pedestrian crossing or an abrupt stop by another vehicle.

With a BAC of 0.08%, the probability of causing an accident is about four times higher than with a BAC of zero. At a BAC of 0.15%, the risk of an accident increases twelvefold, especially for young male drivers.

In addition to alcohol, drugs can also impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.

• Marijuana — Just like alcohol, it impairs motor skills, lane tracking, and cognitive functions.
• Prescription And Over-the-counter Medications — Opioids, sedatives, and muscle relaxants can cause drowsiness, nausea, irregular heartbeat, and poor coordination, increasing the risk of motor vehicle crashes due to impaired driving skills.
• Illegal Drugs — Cocaine and methamphetamines often make drivers aggressive and reckless, contributing to potential accidents.

Alcohol and drugs impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely. Even legal substances can be dangerous when taken improperly or in combination with others. Always understand the effects of any substance you are taking before getting behind the wheel.

How To Reduce The Chances Of Getting Into A DUI Accident

DUI accidents are a serious issue, but there are ways to reduce their likelihood. While it may be impossible to eliminate all risks, being aware of high-risk times, conditions, and behaviors can help decrease DUI-related crashes.

Here are some practical tips to lower the chances of being involved in a DUI accident:

Avoid Driving On Holidays

Certain holidays have a higher rate of accidents under the influence of alcohol. St. Patrick’s Day, New Year’s Eve, and Super Bowl Sunday have particularly high rates of alcohol-related accidents. This is often due to the celebrations and parties where alcohol consumption is common. As a result, the roads can become more dangerous, and the likelihood of encountering drunk drivers increases.

To be safe, you need to limit or avoid driving on these holidays. If you must be on the road, consider alternative transportation options to reduce the risk of a drunk driving accident.

Don’t Let A Drunk Companion Drive

If you’re out with friends, family, or acquaintances and someone has been drinking, don’t let them get behind the wheel. Even if they believe they’re fine, alcohol impairs judgment and coordination. Step up and offer to drive them home or help them find a safe alternative, like a rideshare service or taxi.

It can be tough to tell when someone is too drunk to drive, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Your actions could save lives and prevent serious accidents. Be responsible and ensure everyone gets home safely without putting themselves or others at risk.

Keep Your Eyes On The Road

Avoiding distractions while driving keeps your attention on the road, helping you notice and react to impaired drivers, make better decisions, and ensure a safer driving environment. Stay focused by turning off phone notifications, keeping devices out of reach, and not using social media or adjusting GPS while driving.

Distractions aren’t just digital. Eating, applying makeup, and dealing with kids or pets can also divert your focus. Staying attentive and avoiding unnecessary tasks while driving keeps everyone safer.

Look For Signs Of Drunk Driving

During busy times like holidays, it’s crucial to stay extra alert for signs of impaired driving. Watch for cars swerving between lanes, struggling to stay centered, or braking frequently without cause. These are often indicators of an intoxicated driver.

Keep a safe distance from vehicles driving erratically, as their unpredictable behavior poses a risk. If you suspect someone is driving under the influence, report it to the authorities. Your vigilance could prevent a serious accident and ensure a safer journey for everyone on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is A DUI Accident?

A DUI accident happens when someone causes a crash while impaired by alcohol, illegal drugs, or other substances. In California, it’s illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. However, any impairment that affects safe driving can result in a DUI charge.

What Should I Do If I Get In A DUI Accident?

Being involved in a DUI accident can be overwhelming and frightening. However, taking the proper steps afterward can protect your health, strengthen your case, and ensure you receive the support you need. Here are some guidelines on what you can do:

1. Call 911 immediately to report the accident. If you’re injured, request medical assistance and inform the dispatcher of the situation.
2. Gather as much evidence as possible. Take photos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, any visible injuries, and anything else that might support your claim, such as open containers or drug paraphernalia. If there are witnesses, get their contact information, preferably a phone number and an email address.
3. Cooperate with law enforcement. Provide the officers with a clear account of what happened, mentioning any signs that the other driver was intoxicated. Examples include erratic driving, the smell of alcohol, or slurred speech.
4. Seek medical attention even if you don’t feel injured. Injuries from motor vehicle accidents can appear hours or even days later.
5. Attend follow-up medical appointments and keep all scheduled visits with your healthcare provider. This step is important for your recovery and shows that you are taking action to mitigate your damages.
6. Stay off social media platforms while your case is ongoing. Posts about the accident or your activities afterward could be used against you by the defense to undermine your claim or suggest your injuries aren’t as serious as stated.
7. Contact Arash Law. California’s best DUI accident attorneys can guide you through dealing with insurance companies, gathering and analyzing evidence, and pursuing a civil claim if needed.

What Damages Am I Entitled To As A DUI Accident Victim?

You might wonder what damages you can claim in a personal injury case. Injured victims may be eligible to seek compensation for a variety of losses, including:

• Economic Damages — These damages are meant to reimburse you for expenses you’ve had to pay or income you’ve lost, such as:
  • Medical bills
  • Lost wages
  • Property damage
  • Costs of rehabilitation
• Non-Economic Damages — These compensate for the intangible effects of the accident that don’t have a set monetary value, including:
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of consortium
  • Disfigurement
  • Loss of quality of life
• Punitive Damages — These damages are intended to penalize the at-fault driver’s gross negligence or malicious behavior.

California has no damages cap or limitation for personal injury cases. However, the severity of the injuries dramatically influences the amount of restitution you may receive. Common injuries include:

Skilled DUI accident attorneys can help you calculate compensatory damages, ensuring all your losses are accounted for. They can also pursue punitive damages, holding the at-fault party accountable for their actions.

Do I Need A Lawyer After A DUI Accident?

When you’ve been injured in a DUI accident, several questions may cross your mind:

• “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?”

• “Will hiring a lawyer increase my chances of success?”

• “Can a lawyer help me get the compensation I deserve?”

The answer to these questions often depends on the specifics of your case. However, having experienced personal injury lawyers by your side can make a significant difference in most situations.

A skilled lawyer can help you seek payment for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and even pain and suffering. Additionally, attorneys can handle negotiations with insurance adjusters to build a strong case and ensure the liable party is held accountable. If a settlement isn’t possible, your lawyer can file a civil lawsuit to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Whether through negotiation or litigation, having a legal expert advocate for your rights increases the likelihood of a fair resolution. An experienced attorney can help guide you through the legal process and take the burden off your shoulders during a challenging time. Fill out our “Do I have A Case?” form to start your journey towards justice.

Injured? Call Our Accident Lawyers for DUI Victims in California Today!

At Arash Law, we don’t just win; we win big. As one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California, we prioritize your well-being and aggressively pursue the compensation you need to rebuild your life after a DUI accident. Our skilled DUI victim attorneys are dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve.

Under the guidance of the esteemed Arash Khorsandi, Esq., we are committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients. With a proven track record and over $500 million secured in settlements and verdicts, our team has the expertise to handle even the most challenging DUI accident claims.

If you’ve sustained injuries due to someone else’s negligence, call us at (888) 488-1391. Our DUI victim lawyers are available 24/7 for a free case review. We’ll help you understand your rights and options, ensuring you make the best decision for your case.

We help injured victims all over California, with offices in Los Angeles, Sherman Oaks, Riverside, San Diego, San Francisco, Fresno, Sacramento, and San Jose. Regardless of your native language or immigration status, we offer support and legal assistance when you need it most.