Nearly every 53 minutes, someone in the United States is involved in an accident caused by drunk driving. Close to 500,000 people are injured each year. Drunk driving is a very serious issue, and isn’t taken lightly in most states. One of the reasons it’s considered a serious offense is because of the potential casualties. Anytime an intoxicated person gets behind the wheel, they’re putting not only themselves in danger, but innocent people as well. If you were injured in a car crash caused by an intoxicated driver, you deserve compensation. A personal injury attorney can defend your rights to a fair settlement.
How it Affects Victims
A crash caused by drunk driving can have a detrimental impact on the life of the victim. Depending on the seriousness of their injuries, they may be unable to continue living their life normally. The physical damage they withstood during the accident could prevent them from returning to work temporary or indefinitely. Performing simple everyday tasks may become a challenge for them. They may develop emotional due to the accident, and may develop a fear of driving again. Accidents are always preventable. Sometimes avoiding them is as simple as taking a cab.
Third Party Liability
In some cases, the drunk driver isn’t the only one held accountable for the victim’s injuries. A bar could be held liable if they choose not to enforce the dram shop act. The dram shop act prevents bartenders from serving alcohol to minors and people who are clearly intoxicated. The act exists to prevent injuries that stem from alcohol induced accidents, such as drunk driving. Passengers can also be held responsible if they were aware the driver was intoxicated, yet encouraged them to drink more. Social hosts, employers, and police officers can also be held responsible for allowing the person to not only drink in excess, but get into a vehicle as well. Personal injury attorney Tucson professionals can investigate your claim, and help you determine who is responsible.
