How many people are affected by drunk driving?

Sadly, many New York residents have been negatively affected by impaired driving — either directly or indirectly. Drunk driving is a major public safety concern. Despite the efforts of law enforcement officers and lawmakers, it is an issue that does not appear to be going away any time soon.

It is believed that, across the country, an average of 27 people per day are killed in drunk driving accidents. That equates to a DUI-related death approximately every 51 minutes. On top of that, someone is injured by a drunk driver every 120 seconds. This means that thousands of individuals every year are in some way affected by those who choose to drive while impaired.

Driving while drunk is considered a crime. Those who are caught face license suspension and jail time. The consequences increase if an accident with injuries or death occurs. Unfortunately, those who do often drive while impaired will do it an average of 80 times before they are first arrested. That is 80 times when innocent lives are put at risk.

Drunk driving destroys lives. Unfortunately, those who choose to take part in such behavior do not fully consider all of the consequences beforehand. Those in New York who have been injured or lost loved ones at the hands of drunk drivers may be entitled to pursue legal actions in an effort to seek damages for their losses. Personal injury, wrongful death or any other applicable claims may be filed in civil court. If successful, fair and full compensation for any and all recoverable damages may be awarded.

Source: dosomething.org, “11 Facts About Driving Under the Influence“, Accessed on May 1, 2016