It seems like every day we hear on the radio or see on the news a fatal car accident due to a driver who is operating a vehicle under the influence of either alcohol or a drug. It is estimated by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) that more than thirty-percent of all fatal car accidents involve an intoxicated driver or pedestrian.
Although these accidents are extremely tragic, it is also a reminder that these car accidents are avoidable. By getting behind the wheel of a vehicle while under the influence, you do not only put yourself in danger, but also increase the risk of a potentially fatal Woonsocket car accident.
What Are the Dangers of Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol?
When looking at the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol, it is easy to forget that alcohol is a depressant which slows down the functions of our central nervous system, which is key to operating a vehicle. By slowing down brain function, alcohol affects hand-eye coordination, motor skills and cognitive skills.
Of course, the more alcohol a person consumes, the more impaired their judgement, reaction time and coordination become. These effects lead to serious, and in some cases, even fatal car accidents. Known as a “DUI,” this action performed by a motorist is not only dangerous to other drivers, but is illegal, and can lead to extended incarceration for any damages that are related to driving under the influence of alcohol.
Some sobering statistics for driving under the influence include:
- Every two minutes, a person is injured in a drunk driving crash.
- Drivers aged 26 to 29 have the highest rate of drunk driving.
- Every day in this country, another 27 people die due to drunk driving crashes.
What Are The Dangers of Driving Under the Influence of Drugs?
When thinking about the dangers of driving under the influence of a drug, such as marijuana or cocaine, have similar effects of alcohol. These drugs affect judgement, memory and motor skills. These drugs do not only include “street drugs,” but also misused or abused prescription drugs.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found in a National Roadside Survey that more than fifteen-percent of weekend, nighttime drivers have tested positive for some type of drug in their system while operating a vehicle. Even in states that allow the use of medical marijuana still have laws that driving under the influence of marijuana, even for treatment, is a crime.
- A survey revealed that 22 percent of drivers tested positive for some type of illegal drug when pulled over.
- It is estimated that 17 to 27 percent of drunk drivers have also used drugs while driving.
- Alcohol and marijuana are the substances most often found in drivers’ blood after a crash.
Contact a Woonsocket Car Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you know has been injured a Woonsocket car accident, contact one of our experienced Woonsocket car accident lawyers located at 62 Hamlet Avenue, Woonsocket, RI 02895. You may be entitled to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost income and pain and suffering, among other losses. No fees are received unless you win your case. For a free (no obligation) case evaluation, call us at 401-762-4006 or toll free at 1-800-992-6878. You may also fill out our contact form online.
Paul d’Oliveira
Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.
Rate this Post
Loading...