Decades of awareness campaigns have placed a spotlight on the dangers of drunk driving. However, drunk driving continues to be a danger on Florida roads and elsewhere. Though commuters who do not drive impaired may still be vigilant and watch for the signs of an intoxicated driver, statistics show that impaired drivers bring significant fatality risks when they travel.
Impaired driving statistics
The NHTSA meticulously compiles data on collisions involving drunk driving, presenting annual statistics that vividly illustrate the severity of the consequences associated with impaired driving. In 2019, 10,142 people lost their lives in alcohol-related collisions. The number reflects 28% of all fatal crashes in 2019, a figure that suggests the problem is more pervasive than some realize.
The data points out that a considerable number of drunk drivers are repeat offenders. Substance abuse issues may lead a driver to continue to operate a motor vehicle even after severe sanctions like jail time. A repeat offender may face one legal peril after another until facing charges of manslaughter following a fatal crash.
Drunk driving dangers
Data shows that age plays a role in drunk driving accidents. Namely, younger persons are more likely to drive intoxicated than older, more experienced drivers. A young person might believe they can handle operating a car after consuming several drinks. However, even mild intoxication can lead to judgment errors and poor reactions that cause an accident. A person’s BAC need not exceed the legal limit to establish impairment and negligence.
A drunk driver may face a negligence lawsuit after inflicting harm on someone in a collision. Catastrophic injuries and fatalities may result in victims or surviving family members seeking substantial compensation and punitive awards. Suing above policy limits might occur in such situations.