Paul Thomson is an experienced personal injury attorney located in Roanoke, Virginia. He is licensed in Virginia and West Virginia. See his results here.
According to Virginia ABC, alcohol sales in Virginia increased as much as 55% across the Commonwealth when comparing March 2019 to March 2020. A quick Google search revealed that Virginia was not alone and that alcohol sales spiked across the country. Hoping to assist restaurants with sales, the Commonwealth has lifted a temporary ban on to-go alcohol orders from restaurants.
So for the time being, picking up a to-go order in Virginia might mean an order of Chips/Salsa, a Chimichanga with re-fried beans and you guessed it, a frozen margarita. (You can tell the kids its an adult slurpee when they ask for a sip). Seems, well, unprecedented! Picture it… you’re driving home with the smell of Mexican cheesy goodness, sunroof open, sipping your margarita — what could go wrong?!!?
You guessed it, a DUI accident that could severely injure you, your passengers or someone else. And that’s why the powers that be issued restrictions on how all of those tasty adult slurpees can be served.
Alcoholic drinks served from restaurants must be served in sealed containers with lids. No openings for straws or sipping are allowed. There is also a limit on the number of drinks that can be sold and drinks are only sold in conjunction with meals. Alcoholic drinks are also only sold to patrons 21 years old and over. So alas, save your drink for your back patio.
But of course, alcohol from restaurants is just a small percentage of the total alcohol sold in Virginia. Grocery stores and ABC stores have also seen increased sales during the quarantine.
While consuming alcohol in your home is considered safer during this time, we should keep in mind that alcohol related accidents are still possible.
Alcohol related pedestrian accidents and operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol are common whenever there is an increase in alcohol sales.
Fewer cars on the road doesn’t mean that we can let go of safe driving habits. Driving with a buzz is still dangerous. People are going to to get food and supplies, healthcare workers are still driving to the hospital, grocery store workers are still working around the clock and delivery trucks are out on the roads in ever increasing numbers. There is still a risk of injury or death if a drunk-driving accident occurs.
If you or someone you love is a victim of a DUI related accident, call or text The Thomson Law for a FREE consultation here. If after hours, please know that you can complete the form here and we will get back to you about your case. Calling or completing the form does not obligate you at all. We are here to help and want to offer you a chance to get the answers you need about your potential case.
