Drinking on Halloween? Don’t drive.
Suspected Drunk Driver Hops Curb, Hits Family Trick-or-Treating on the South Side
According to a KSAT News report, a family of three, including a one-year-old girl, was injured after a driver hopped the curb on Halloween.
Police reported the accident happened sometime in the evening of Friday, October 31st, in a South Side neighborhood in the 9300 block of Monsanto. The driver, who was not identified, reportedly got into his vehicle and “hit the gas a little too hard,” causing him to hop the curb. Several people got out of the way, but a family of three, including a one-year-old girl and a man and woman in their 20s, was hit and injured.
The girl and the man suffered minor injuries, and the woman was taken to the hospital. The driver stopped and was arrested on suspicion of driving intoxicated. Police said there were some indications of intoxicants in the vehicle.
Did You Know?
1,053 people statewide were killed in accidents involving drunk drivers in 2024—that’s 25.37% of all fatalities from motor vehicle accidents.
Drinking Responsibly at Holiday Parties
Halloween is meant to be fun for families — costumes, candy, and time spent together — but when alcohol gets involved, celebrations can quickly turn tragic. The recent South Side crash shows how even one bad decision can put innocent people at risk.
As the holidays approach, it’s a good time to remember that drinking and driving don’t mix — not at Halloween parties, not at Thanksgiving dinners, and not at end-of-year gatherings.
Why Holiday Drunk Driving Accidents Spike
Every year, law enforcement sees an increase in DUI-related crashes around major holidays. The reasons are simple:
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More social gatherings – People drink more during seasonal parties and community events.
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Late-night travel – Drivers are often on the road after dark when visibility is lower.
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Overconfidence – Many people think they’re “fine to drive” after a few drinks when they’re not.
Unfortunately, these factors often combine with distracted driving, fatigue, or speeding — all of which increase the likelihood of serious accidents.
How to Stay Safe and Still Have Fun During the Holiday Season
If you plan to drive, it’s best to avoid drinking altogether. Any amount of alcohol will alter your perception, motor skills, and decision-making ability, even if only by a slight amount.
That doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy yourself. There are plenty of fun, festive alternatives that don’t involve alcohol at all:
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Try holiday mocktails. Many classic drinks can be made alcohol-free with sparkling water, juice, or fresh fruit.
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Volunteer as the designated driver. You’ll help your friends get home safely — and likely save someone from making a dangerous mistake.
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Host alcohol-free gatherings. Hot chocolate bars, movie nights, or dessert parties can be just as festive (and much safer).
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Plan group rides. Share rides with friends through a rideshare app or set up a rotation for who drives and who celebrates each week.
If you do choose to drink, it’s important to know when to stop. On average, your body takes about one hour to process a single standard drink (like one beer, one glass of wine, or one shot of liquor). However, that rate can vary widely based on your size, age, and what you’ve eaten.
To stay safe:
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Stop drinking at least two to three hours before driving.
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Drink water between alcoholic beverages.
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Eat something substantial if you’re drinking with dinner or at a party.
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When in doubt, don’t drive — call a friend, use a rideshare, or stay the night.
The best way to end the night safely is to plan ahead before the first drink. A little preparation can make the difference between a happy memory and a preventable tragedy.
What to Do If You’re Hit by a Drunk Driver
If you or someone you love is injured by a drunk driver, it’s important to know your rights. In Texas, victims can pursue compensation for:
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Medical bills and ongoing treatment
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Lost income during recovery
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Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
In some cases, victims may also seek punitive damages, which are designed to punish especially reckless behavior — like driving under the influence.
Injured by a Drunk Driver in San Antonio? Call Shaw.
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident with a drunk driver in San Antonio, you could be entitled to compensation for things like:
- Ambulance Costs,
- ER Treatment,
- Pain and Suffering,
- Missed Work,
- And More.
We’ll help you find out if you have a case for free.
Call Shaw at 800-862-1260 to schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced auto accident lawyer in San Antonio. No fees. No obligations. Just the expert legal advice you need.
We look forward to serving you.