How Many Car Accidents Happen Because of Drunk Driving?
Every year, thousands of people die in alcohol-related car crashes. Drunk drivers put everyone else on the road in danger. This is why it is illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol in most states. Moreover, if you are caught driving under the influence, you could face a felony charge and a fine of up to $150,000. If you are injured in a crash caused by a drunk driver, you may be able to sue the person for financial compensation.
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There are a variety of signs that you should watch for if you believe you have been in an accident involving a drunk driver. These signs include swerving continuously, breaking for no apparent reason, and struggling to maintain control of the vehicle. In addition, if you notice a person whose behavior resembles that of a drunk driver, you should report him or her to the police.
Among the most dangerous times to drive are late at night, during the rush hour, and during heavy drinking holidays. During these times, drunk drivers are especially likely to get into a collision. According to NHTSA data, fatal drunk driving crashes happen most often between the hours of 2 a.m. and 3 a.m. During these hours, the rate of alcohol involvement in fatal crashes is 3.4 times higher than at any other time.
Although the number of fatal drunk driving crashes decreased slightly in 2020, the total number of fatalities is still on the rise. For example, in 2019, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 10,497 drunk driving deaths, which is about 28 percent of all traffic fatalities. Compared to the figures in the previous years, the number of deaths involving alcohol-related crashes increased by 16 percent in 2020.
As far as age goes, young adults are the most at risk. Teenagers under the legal drinking age are 25 percent more likely to be involved in a motor vehicle crash involving a drunk driver than older teens. Also, alcohol affects the ability of a driver to perform basic functions such as reading a map and navigating a highway.
In addition, the most fatal days to drive are the Fourth of July and St. Patrick’s Day. Thousands of people die in alcohol-related car accidents on these two holidays each year.
Alcohol-related driving is illegal in all 50 states. In addition, it is illegal to drive under the influence of any type of drug or mind-altering substance. Therefore, if you believe that you or someone else has been injured in a crash involving a drunk driver, you should consult a personal injury attorney for help. The attorney can assist you in determining your eligibility for financial compensation and in filing a lawsuit.
Almost half of all alcohol-related fatal crashes occur during the day, with 27 percent occurring in daylight. A third of these crashes take place on residential streets. Another four percent of alcohol-related fatal crashes occurred on rainy or cloudy days.