Almost everyone has heard of Black Friday — the day of super deals and deep discounts on presents (or just purchases) before the winter holidays. But Black Wednesday gets far less press, even though it can be deadly.
Learning more about the problems associated with this holiday could keep you and your family safer this Thanksgiving.
What is Black Wednesday and why is it dangerous?
For a number of reasons, the day before Thanksgiving picked up this nickname. Part of it is likely tied to Black Friday two days later when retailers supposedly “get in the black” and turn a profit for the year, but another reason has to do with the surprising number of people who get “blackout drunk” and drive, too.
For one thing, this is the first extended vacation for both high school and college students. Those away at university see this as an opportunity to get together with hometown friends and toss back a few drinks. Most of those drinking are probably underage — and certainly, those still in high school are younger than the legal drinking age.
Drinking and driving never mix
It’s not just the younger set who drink too much on Black Wednesday. The huge family feasts pictured in TV ads are usually much different than the reality of meals often pocked by fights with family over politics, traditions and any number of toxic relatives bent on introducing chaos into a family gathering.
Those dreading the holiday may find quite a few reasons to slip off to the corner bar for a nip or three right around the time your family is heading to your Thanksgiving destination the next day.
When an accident occurs
Inevitably, some travelers will get into collisions over the upcoming holiday and the days before and after it. If another driver was intoxicated or otherwise at fault for the wreck, you may be able to seek financial compensation for your losses, injuries and other damages you incurred due to the crash.
