Each year, thousands of people are killed in drunk driving accidents across the United States. In 2015 alone, 10,265 people died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes, accounting for nearly 29 percent of all traffic-related deaths in the United States.
Each day, 28 people die in these crashes. Fortunately, with the help of groups such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), fewer drivers are getting behind the wheel after drinking. Cutting down on these crashes and spreading awareness can save thousands of lives.
“Drinking and driving can cause catastrophic damages,” says Washington state car accident lawyer Chris Davis. “No life should be taken because of someone else’s selfishness.”
The reality is that people will always make foolish decisions and reach for the keys after drinking. Protecting yourself and learning what to watch for can save your life.
How To Identify A Drunk Driver
- Turning with a wide radius
- Placement in their lane – straddling the center of the road or lane maker
- Appearing to be drunk – someone’s eyes are gloomy and red, their posture is inexistent, or they are drinking while they drive
- Signaling that does not match driving behavior (right turn signal on, but turning left)
- Nearly hitting an object or another vehicle on the roadway
- Weaving through traffic unsafely or zigzagging
- Swerving or abruptly turning away from a straight course
- Turning illegally
- Slow response to traffic signals or signs
- Driving 10 mile per hours UNDER the speed limit
- Stopping for no reason
- Tailgating
- Randomly braking for no apparent reason
- Headlights are off when it is dark out
- Driving into opposite or approaching traffic
Not only do drunk driver offenders face criminal charges punishable by fines and/or jail time, but they can also be held civilly liable for monetary damages to their victims. Monetary compensation may be awarded for things such as medical bills, lost wages or income, property loss, pain, suffering, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life.
A quick note: some attorneys who handle drunk driving personal injury cases also represent drunk drivers in criminal cases. When looking for a car accident attorney after an accident, find a lawyer who only represents victims of impaired drivers, not the DUI offenders who caused horrific accidents and injuries.
If you wish to pursue an insurance claim against an at-fault drunk driver, contact an experienced car accident attorney.
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