In the fall, fans look forward to football season and enjoy watching the games and celebrating victory with friends and family. The flip side to watch out for is the increased number of car accidents during this time.
Sports fans often consume excessive alcohol before, during, and after football games. A University of Minnesota study found that:
- One in four tailgaters drink a minimum of five alcoholic beverages per game, on average.
- One in 12 spectators is intoxicated when leaving major sporting events.
- Spectators under age 35 were eight times more likely to be intoxicated after a game.
- Tailgaters are 14 times more likely to leave sporting games under the influence.
The Department of Transportation reports that DUI arrests and citations can be up to 13 percent higher on game days.
How Can I Avoid a Car Accident During Football Season?
There are several safety tips for fans who attend football games. Consider public transportation when going to large stadiums, especially if you plan on drinking. Split an Uber with friends, or take the train into the city instead of driving. If you must drive, use extreme caution and avoid alcohol or have a designated driver.
It also makes sense to allow extra time for traveling back and forth to the stadium because there can be severe traffic jams. Reconsider driving if there is heavy rain or snow, as that only compounds the problem.
Not everyone is a football fan, and those drivers may also have to travel the same routes around game time. They can depart for the destination earlier or wait until the game has started. Avoid heading out close to the end of the fourth quarter, and stay off the area roads for a while after the game ends.
Contact a Media Car Accident Lawyer at Eckell Sparks if You Were Involved in a Car Accident During Football Season
Enjoying a football game is great, but being safe on the road is important. It is recommended to use caution when driving around game time. If you were involved in any type of motor vehicle accident, contact a Media car accident lawyer at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. Call us at 610-565-3701 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation. Located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we serve clients in Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.