Every year, the night before Thanksgiving earns the dubious distinction of being called “Blackout Wednesday.” Many bars consider it the biggest drinking day of the year — bigger, by far, than St. Patrick’s Day or New Year’s Eve.
How did Drinksgiving get started?
Sometimes called “Drinksgiving,” the annual bacchanali has been making the news since at least 2007, but it’s probably been going on for even longer.
It’s generally believed that it has been spurred on by the fact that young adults often return home for the holiday. Once they do, they seek to meet up with friends and reconnect — and that often happens in bars. It’s gradually become an unofficial, unscripted holiday. In 2016, for example, bars and restaurants saw a 167% increase in revenue on that day.
Are bars getting into the act?
Bar owners know a money-making event when they see it. Many have begun offering Drinksgiving specials. If people are going to binge drink anyhow, the bars figure they might as well make a profit.
There’s a big problem with all this, however. Some of those drinkers may be overserved, and some may simply make bad choices. Either can turn into drunk drivers — and that may put you and your loved ones at risk.
What should you do if you’re in a wreck with a drunk?
First, focus on your injuries and let the police handle the rest. Once the immediate threat to your health is handled, you can find out more about pursuing a claim for your losses. An experienced advocate can make sure that the claims process stays fair and that your rights are protected.