Driving can be dangerous when every person on the road is 100% sober. If you add somebody to the mix who is under the influence, there is a greater chance of an accident.

Surprising DUI Accident Statistics

Here is a fact from the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control (NCIPC) that will open your eyes:

“Every day, almost 30 people in the United States die in motor vehicle crashes that involve an alcohol-impaired driver. This amounts to one death every 51 minutes. The annual cost of alcohol-related crashes totals more than $59 billion.”

This alone proves that drinking and driving is extremely dangerous. And unfortunately, you don’t have to be the one who is impaired to be injured in a drunk driving accident.

The NCIPC and CDC shares additional statistics and facts, such as these:

  • In 2012, approximately 10,300 people were killed in alcohol-impaired driving crashes.
  • In 2010, more than 1.4 million people were arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Teens and young adults account for the largest percentage of drunk driving accidents.
  • Approximately three in 10 drivers in fatal car accidents that involved alcohol were between the ages of 25-34 years.

The best thing you can personally do is never drink and drive. Along with this, always be aware of what is going on around you, including erratic behavior by other drivers. Some nights of the year are known for an increased number of drinking and driving cases. It may be best to avoid driving on these nights.

Recoverable Costs Following a Drunk Driving Car Accident

Car accidents that involve intoxication can be severe and life-changing. The drivers, as well as their passengers, may experience significant injuries including broken bones, head injuries, internal bleeding, and deep lacerations. In most cases, the people involved in the accident will be taken to the nearest hospital for medical treatment.

The patient may require follow-up medical care or even rehabilitation. This often requires time off work. None of this even accounts for the lost wages or the possibility of diminished earning.

If you were injured in a drunk driving accident, you may be eligible to recover the following types of compensation:

  • Current medical bills
  • Future medical bills
  • Prescription costs
  • Lost wages
  • Diminished earning capacity
  • Property damages
  • Rehabilitation costs
  • Pain and suffering

Many victims may also experience a great deal of pain and suffering. They may fear driving due to the painful injuries they incurred. If you were injured in a car accident and you believe that drunk-driving was the cause, then you need a lawyer who will fight to collect the compensation you need to recover.

Your Options Following a Drunk Driving Car Accident

When a person is injured by a drunk driver, they often reach out to a personal injury attorney to learn about their legal rights. Driving under the influence can be considered negligent, which means if you are injured, you may be able to sue for the recovery of your damages. If another driver got behind the wheel intoxicated and injured you, then it is only right they pay.