Drunk driving crashes are an all too frequent occurrence in Texas. In fact, drunk driving fatalities make up about a third of all roadway crash fatalities in the country. The Lone Star State’s legal limit is a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent, and though this may seem like a small amount, it’s actually enough to impair a driver’s reaction times.
The liver can process an ounce of alcohol consumed in approximately one hour, after which the alcohol leaves the blood. However, a compromised liver will take longer. Younger drivers, especially those under 24, are at a greater risk for fatal crashes than older adults. This is because younger drivers are less experienced behind the wheel and tend to travel in groups, making them more easily distracted.
Motorcyclists and those with prior DUI convictions also face a higher risk for crashes. As for the most common causes of drunk driving fatalities, they include head trauma and blood loss. Drivers could be struck by flying debris or hit their head against the steering wheel or another hard surface. The steering column could strike their abdomen, or glass could pierce the abdominal cavity and cause internal bleeding in their organs.
Preventing drunk driving usually begins with educating the public. Police can also set up sobriety checkpoints. Individuals can help by keeping friends and family from driving drunk.
An intoxicated driver who causes an auto accident may face criminal charges. However, their auto insurance company will likely face a personal injury claim from the injured party. A victim who believes they have good grounds for a claim can ask a lawyer for a case evaluation. The lawyer could have investigators build up the case by obtaining a copy of the police report and gathering any other evidence.
