While most drivers realize that taking to the road while intoxicated presents extreme dangers, far too many throw away caution and drive while under the influence. Many find themselves in an Arizona courtroom afterward, facing fines and possible jail time for their behavior. Sadly, some drunk drivers cause fatal accidents, leading to worse legal troubles after ruining other people’s lives.
The scourge of drunk driving
Drunk driving incidents remain consistent, and the results are tragic. Past years saw a great many fatal collisions, as 2019 saw 10,142 lose their lives in alcohol-related crashes. The number reflects 28% of all fatal traffic accidents.
Statistics show that a large percentage of persons involved in fatal drunk driving collisions were between the ages of 21 and 34. The age range represents 52% of all drivers at the center of fatal accidents.
Such data comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and the agency’s statistics show that Texas, Florida and California are the top three states for drunk driving collisions. While some states might have lower drunk driving incidents than others, no geographic region is free of dangerously intoxicated drivers.
The penalties for drunk driving
Drunk drivers who cause fatal motor vehicle accidents could face manslaughter or other criminal charges. The drivers would likely face wrongful death claims from surviving family members suffering pain and financial devastation.
Not all drunk driving crashes lead to lost lives, but the victims could suffer injuries. Any harm inflicted from a drunk driving crash may lead to medical bills and other expenses, and seeking compensation would be appropriate. A personal injury lawsuit could result in a settlement that covers the losses.