Holiday Driving on Long Island: It’s Not Just Traffic You Should Worry About
- Sonny Dinler
- 7 hours ago
- 3 min read
You’re leaving a holiday party in Hicksville. The snow is light, the radio’s playing some Frank Sinatra, and you’re full of good food and cheer. But on the drive home, you hit traffic. Flashing lights up ahead. Another DUI checkpoint. Someone didn’t plan ahead.
The truth is, holiday driving isn’t just about dodging congestion or hoping your car starts in the cold. It’s also one of the most dangerous times to be on the road, especially here on Long Island. At Sonny’s Auto Repairs in Hicksville, we’re not just here to keep your vehicle running — we’re here to help keep you safe.
More Celebrations, More Risk: Holiday DUIs in New York
December is filled with gatherings, company parties, and nights out. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the highest-risk times for alcohol- and drug-impaired driving.
According to the NHTSA, over 13,000 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes in 2021. December consistently ranks as one of the deadliest months for DUI-related fatalities.
New York law enforcement takes this seriously. Throughout the holiday season, expect increased checkpoints and stricter enforcement under the STOP-DWI campaign. The Governor’s Office has even announced statewide crackdowns during peak travel weekends to help reduce impaired driving.
It’s Not Just Alcohol: Driving High Is Illegal and Dangerous
Since recreational cannabis was legalized in New York, the number of drivers operating vehicles under the influence of THC has gone up. So have the consequences.
The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles reminds drivers that cannabis impairs coordination, reaction time, and judgment. All of these are critical for safe driving. And yes, you can absolutely get a DUI for driving high. The penalties are similar to alcohol-related offenses: fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
Just because it’s legal doesn’t mean it’s safe to drive.
Holiday Vehicle Prep: Don’t Let Car Trouble Add to the Danger
Even if you’re 100% sober, winter driving brings its own challenges. The cold affects tire pressure, traction, visibility, and engine performance. At Sonny’s Auto Repairs, we see more breakdowns, worn tires, dead batteries, and brake issues every December.
Before you hit the road this holiday season, check:
Tires and Brakes
Are your tires properly inflated with enough tread?
Are your brakes responsive, or do they squeak or grind?
Wipers and Lights
Are your wipers streaking or skipping?
Are all headlights, brake lights, and signals working properly?
Battery and Fluids
Cold weather drains battery power, especially in batteries older than three years.
Low or dirty fluids can make your car work harder and increase the risk of breakdowns.
A pre-holiday inspection can go a long way in preventing last-minute car trouble.
Drive Sober and Plan Ahead
The best way to avoid a DUI and protect everyone in your car is to plan ahead:
Choose a designated sober driver before heading out.
Use a rideshare app or public transportation.
Stay the night if you’re at a friend’s or relative’s house.
Be aware of prescription medications or cannabis that may affect your ability to drive.
If you’re hosting, help your guests get home safely. Offer non-alcoholic options, help arrange rides, or encourage overnight stays when needed.
Real Talk: What We See Every December
We’ve seen it all. Cars sliding into curbs. Totaled vehicles from preventable crashes. Batteries that give out in the cold. Bad luck happens — but most of what we see could’ve been prevented.
At Sonny’s, we want our customers to enjoy the holidays, not spend them waiting for a tow truck.
Schedule Your Holiday Safety Inspection at Sonny’s
Whether it’s your brakes, lights, tires, or battery, Sonny’s Auto Repairs can get your vehicle ready for the season.
Just last year, we caught a completely bald tire on a customer’s SUV the day before a snowstorm. They had no idea — and they were about to drive to upstate New York. That quick inspection likely prevented a major accident. We’ve been helping drivers across Hicksville and Long Island stay safe on the road for over 25 years. And we’re here when it matters most.
Schedule your inspection before the roads get busier and the weather turns worse.
📍 499 East Old Country Road, Hicksville, NY
📞 516-822-3671Contact us online
Drive smart. Stay safe. And enjoy your holidays with peace of mind.
Quick Holiday Driving FAQs
Can I get a DUI in New York for marijuana?
Yes. Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal in New York, and penalties are similar to alcohol-related offenses.
Are there more car crashes around the holidays?
Yes. December has a higher number of crashes, especially on weekends, due to impaired driving and winter conditions.
When should I bring my car in for a winter checkup?
Early December is ideal, before the holiday travel rush and coldest weather arrive.
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