4 Important Things to Know About Drunk Driving Accidents
Despite all the commercials, public awareness, and safety programs that try to discourage drunk driving, it is still something that we deal with all the time. In fact, approximately one out of every three traffic deaths are unfortunately caused by someone who is driving under the influence. Even if the crash doesn’t result in death, thousands of people are injured each day by drunk drivers. Since this is such a relevant topic, we thought we would share 4 important things you should know about drunk driving accidents:
1. Legal Driving Limit
As you probably are aware, the legal driving limit in Tennessee is .08 Blood Alcohol Content (BAC). Studies have shown that the average person can reach that level by consuming 2 to 4 alcoholic beverages within an hour. However, there are many factors that can play into this, including your gender, age, body build, the strength of drinks, time of day, etc. There are simple BAC calculators online that you can use for your particular case, but it is always safer to sober up before you get behind the wheel or have a designated driver to avoid a disaster.
2. What to Do if Injured
If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident involving a drunk driver, there are some important steps that you need to take. First of all, it is important to call the police immediately so they can file an official report on the crash. If you suspect that the other driver is impaired, mention that to the police so they can investigate and perform sobriety tests if they deem it necessary. For further evidence to help your case, try to safely document the fact that the other driver is drunk, either by recording an audio conversation or a video on your phone. Be sure to also gather information about the other driver, such as insurance documents and their driver’s license number. If anyone else witnessed the accident, be sure to also obtain their information to help your case.
3. What You Are Entitled to
Individuals who are injured in drunk driving accidents are entitled to financial compensation for a number of things. Of course, you have the right to have your repairs paid for on your vehicle. In addition, if you have any of the following and can prove you incurred them as a result of the accident, then you may be able to recover your medical care costs, payment for lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering. These additional costs are meant to punish the wrongdoer for drinking and driving.
4. How We Can Help
Being injured in a car accident can be a life-changing and devasting occurrence. Luckily, our team of experienced lawyers will be by your side every step of the way to ensure you receive the proper compensation. We have a ton of experience with DUI cases, and we know the laws in place that are meant to protect the injured party.
Drunk driving accidents can be avoided, but unfortunately, they happen way too often. Contact our East Tennessee law office today and let us fight for what you deserve.
