Driving under the influence leads to many fatal accidents in New York and throughout the rest of America. Even when below the legal blood-alcohol content limit of .08 percent, inebriated drivers can be inattentive to the road. Those who are above the limit will have an impaired judgment and perception of speed and distance. Considering that these issues are often combined with drugs, medication and distractions, it’s no wonder that drunk driving accounts for one-third of all traffic-related deaths.
DUI-related deaths usually arise from some form of trauma. The head could receive blunt-force trauma on the steering wheel or some other hard surface. The abdomen could receive the same trauma on the steering column, or it could be pierced by glass or other sharp objects. Serious cases can injure the internal organs and cause rapid blood loss. With extreme blood loss will come hypovolemic shock and potentially organ failure.
The most at-risk groups are drivers under the age of 24, those with a previous DUI conviction and motorcyclists. Young adults are especially vulnerable because they often ride in groups that can be distracting. A DUI conviction can bring serious consequences, including possible jail time and license suspension. Some countries, like Brazil and Saudi Arabia, have a zero-tolerance policy — no one can drive with a trace of alcohol in their system.
A victim of a drunk driving accident can file a claim to receive compensation. This is where an attorney can come in, evaluate the claim and help ensure a fair settlement. Damages could cover medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering.