WHAT MICHIGAN DRIVERS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE DEADLIEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR

“Blackout Wednesday”. “Drinksgiving”. These are the latest terms to describe the evening before Thanksgiving, the busiest bar night of the year, and, therefore, the most dangerous for drivers. College students come home to spend the holiday with their families and see old friends, while other people travel to be with distant relatives across Michigan or out-of-state.

While meeting up with friends and family on Wednesday night is a great way to kick off the holiday, driving home after a few drinks can be deadly. Here is what drivers should know before heading out on the road this weekend. And, if the worst happens, an experienced car accident lawyer can help protect your rights and win the compensation you deserve.

SOBERING STATISTICS

In 2025, the National Safety Council estimated that 507 people may die in car accidents over the long Thanksgiving weekend. This prediction is based on data from previous years.

In addition, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Association (NHTSA), 12,429 people died in car accidents that involved at least one alcohol-impaired driver during the most recent year data was available. This represents 30 percent of all traffic fatalities for that year.

Furthermore, 137 drivers involved in fatal crashes on Thanksgiving Eve (6 p.m. to 5:59 a.m.) were over the legal limit for alcohol consumption, with young drivers (ages 21-24) comprising the largest percentage (44 percent).

BUZZED DRIVING IS DRUNK (OR DRUGGED) DRIVING

According to Michigan law, it is a crime to drive a motor vehicle with a bodily alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or more for those over 21, or .02 for individuals under 21.

Even though marijuana is legal in Michigan, driving under the influence of marijuana or any drug that impairs driving aptitude is illegal, not to mention dangerous. Having a valid medical marijuana card does not exempt a driver from being arrested and charged if a law enforcement officer can prove the drug has impaired their ability to drive.

Additionally, drivers with any amount of a Schedule 1 controlled substance and/or cocaine are subject to the same fines and penalties as drunk drivers, even if they show no signs of impairment.

DRUNK DRIVING HAS WIDESPREAD CONSEQUENCES

Not only does drunk driving cost lives, a conviction causes damages beyond broken bones or dented cars. Here are just a few:

• An arrest usually means hefty fines, legal fees and costly car repairs
• Offenders will receive at least six points on their driving record
• A drunk driving conviction can result in a driver’s license suspension or revocation
• Many jurisdictions now impose jail sentences, even for first-time offenders
• Auto insurance premiums will increase significantly, often for years to come

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR DRIVING DRUNK IN MICHIGAN?

Although sentences are ultimately determined by a judge, Michigan has the following penalty guidelines for individuals convicted of drunk driving:

First offense with BAC below .17:

• Up to $500 fine
• Up to 93 days in jail
• Up to 360 hours community service
• Up to 180 days driver’s license suspension
• 6 points on a driver’s license

First offense with BAC of .17 or higher:

• Up to $700 fine
• Up to 180 days in jail
• Up to 360 hours community service
• Up to one year driver’s license suspension
• 6 points on a driver’s license
• Mandatory completion of an alcohol treatment program (some judges may require this regardless of BAC level)

Refusal to take a breathalyzer test after being stopped by police:

• First offense: automatic one-year
• Second offense within seven years: two-year driver’s license suspension

Sentencing may also include a restricted driver’s license and the use of an ignition interlock device for a period of time determined by the court.

TIPS FOR TRAVELING SAFELY ON A HOLIDAY WEEKEND

We all enjoy celebrating the holidays with family, friends and co-workers. However, when a gathering includes alcohol, it is important to take certain precautions to avoid a tragic accident.

Here are some suggestions for staying safe this weekend and throughout the season:

• Never get behind the wheel of a car under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Always wear a seatbelt and insist that passengers buckle up.
• Contact your local police or sheriff’s department for information on free rides home from local bars and restaurants.
• Appoint a designated driver who agrees to stay sober for the entire night.
• If you agree to be a designated driver, avoid drinking any amount of alcohol.
• If a sober driver is unavailable, call a cab or rideshare service such as Lyft or Uber.
• Do whatever is necessary to stop others from driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• If you are hosting a gathering where people have been drinking, ask someone else to drive them home or call a cab or rideshare service.

OUR EXPERIENCED CAR ACCIDENT LAWYERS WILL WIN THE COMPENSATION YOU DESERVE!

Accidents can happen to the most careful drivers, especially on a busy holiday weekend where roads are more crowded than usual and many people are traveling to and from gatherings where alcohol is served.

If you or a loved one is injured in an auto accident, we can help. Our knowledgeable and compassionate attorneys have the skills, experience and resources necessary to achieve the best financial outcome for you and your family.

Car accident law is complicated, but finding the right car accident lawyer is simple. Start your case today by filling out the brief form below or contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation with a member of our legal team.