Drunk Driving Statistics
Serious, debilitating, and permanent injuries can come from a drunk driving car accident. Anytime that alcohol is involved, an automobile can turn into a dangerous and harmful weapon to anyone it comes in contact with. Studies show that it is usually the sober passengers who sustain the most injuries in any alcohol-related accident; the drunk driver is relaxed due to the high alcohol content so they do not tense up in the moment of impact. In 2009, there were 492 reported fatal car accidents in the state of Washington, and 232 of those were alcohol-related, which makes up 47%. From that amount, 206 of the drunk drivers were found with a blood alcohol content level of a .08 or higher. In the Washington code section 46.61, all DUI criminal offenses are considered to be gross misdemeanors.
The law provides a way for the injured person to collect monetary restitution from the responsible party for any losses they may have suffered, and in some cases, punitive damages may also be recovered. If you experienced any financial damages due to medical expenses, lost wages, loss in earning potential or funeral expenses, then you should be fully compensated. Loss of enjoyment of life or pain and suffering are also viable reason s to seek recompense. If your spouse is injured you may file as a third-party and pursue repayment on their behalf. Although monetary compensation can never fully repair the damages incurred upon you and your family, at the very least, it can lessen your financial burden.
Common Injuries in Drunk Driving Accidents
Drunk driving accidents often result in severe injuries due to impaired judgment and delayed reaction times of the intoxicated drivers. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): The force of a collision can lead to head injuries, ranging from concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries that may have long-term consequences.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: High-impact collisions can cause damage to the spinal cord, resulting in paralysis or other debilitating conditions.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: The force of a drunk driving accident can cause fractures and breaks in various parts of the body, leading to pain, immobility, and the need for extensive medical treatment.
- Internal Injuries: The impact of a collision can cause internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, which may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries are common in car accidents, often causing pain and discomfort that may persist for an extended period.
- Emotional Trauma: In addition to physical injuries, victims of drunk driving accidents may also suffer from emotional trauma, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
What Damages Could be Recovered in a Drunk Driving Accident Claim?
When pursuing a drunk driving accident claim, victims may be entitled to various damages to help them recover physically, emotionally, and financially. Potential damages may include:
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for present and future medical costs, including hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and therapy.
- Lost Wages: Recovery of lost income because of time away from work during the healing process and compensation for any future loss of earning capacity.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for repairing or replacing damaged vehicles and personal property.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional pain endured as a result of the accident and injuries sustained.
- Emotional Distress: Damages for psychological trauma, anxiety, and other emotional distress caused by the drunk driving accident.
- Wrongful Death: In cases where a loved one has tragically lost their life in a drunk driving accident, surviving family members may be eligible for compensation through a wrongful death claim.
Contact Our Drunk Driving Accident Attorney in Kitsap County Today
Our Kitsap County drunk driving accident lawyers at Ramirez & Cooper, Inc. are here to guide you through the legal process, advocate for your rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Our commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding drunk driving accidents sets us apart as trusted advocates for our clients. Contact us today for a confidential consultation. Let us fight for justice and the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
Contact Ramirez & Cooper, Inc. today to get started with our Kitsap County drunk driving accident lawyer.
