facebook
Over 100 Years Of Service

The deadly dangers of drunk drivers

On Behalf of | Jun 9, 2022 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

Public safety campaigns raised a great deal of awareness about the dangers of drunk driving over the past several decades. Yet, untold scores of people get behind the wheel while intoxicated. Some may battle substance abuse problems that lead them to believe they’ll be fine. Others might dismiss concerns because they feel they didn’t drink too much. Regardless, anyone who drives under the influence in Massachusetts could face severe legal consequences after causing an accident.

Drunk driving’s dangers to public safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration presents statistics revealing the tragic consequences of driving under the influence: over 10,000 people lose their lives each year in these accidents. Although the law established being legally drunk as having a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or above, one drink could be enough to cause a fatal collision.

Impairments from alcohol and legal or illegal drugs may dull reactions and perceptions. So, a driver might not notice a car is stopped or that the traffic light is red, resulting in a terrible rear-end collision. Such an incident is one example of how a drunk driving crash may happen.

The aftermath of drunk driving crashes

Motor vehicle accidents caused by drunk drivers could ruin the lives of all involved, including the intoxicated persons. Some accidents may involve multicar collisions, causing several victims to suffer severe injuries. Broken bones, life-threatening internal bleeding and traumatic brain injuries are possible, depending on the impact.

Those who suffer physical or psychological harm and property damage from a drunk driver may file a personal injury lawsuit. Victims might incur significant expenses after a collision, and seeking compensation from a negligent party may be unavoidable. An auto insurance policy settlement could provide adequate funds, but suing above the policy limits might be appropriate in some situations.