A study released by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety shows January 1 as one of the worst days of the year when it comes to alcohol impaired deaths. The IIHS looked at accident data from 1986-2002 and reported that New Year’s Day is one the deadlier days when it comes to pedestrian deaths caused by motor vehicle accidents.
According to the IIHS, while July 3 and 4 have the highest crash death averages per day, New Year’s Day is the deadliest day for pedestrians. An average of 24 pedestrians are killed every New Year’s Day. The daily average of 24 pedestrian deaths is the highest of any day of the year. Data shows that 51% of accidents on New Year’s Day involved drivers with high blood alcohol concentrations. For comparison: on December 25 and January 8, just 33% of accidents involved alcohol impaired drivers.
If you are going to celebrate the new year, please do so responsibly. There are plenty of taxis and ride share companies out there to make sure you get home safely. Be responsible this New Year’s Eve!