In all jurisdictions in the United States, it is illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. This is because alcohol diminishes a person’s ability to safely operate a vehicle by impacting their motor skills, cognition, judgment, vision, and coordination. Several alternatives to drunk driving exist, such as calling a designated sober driver, using public transportation, or requesting a ridesharing service like Uber or Lyft. Therefore, there is no excuse for drunk driving as it is entirely avoidable. That said, as the Fourth of July approaches, drivers must be extra cautious while on the road. This is because there is a higher chance of being involved in an auto accident, especially involving a drunk driver, as many Fourth of July celebrations include drinking. If you have been injured in a car accident because of a drunk driver, contact a skilled Monmouth County Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer who can help you fight for the justice you deserve.
What makes driving on the Fourth of July more dangerous than any other day?
According to research, families will drive over 50 miles to attend Fourth of July celebrations. That said, this means there are more drivers on the road than usual, which increases the chances of auto accidents. At these celebrations, individuals will like to have a few alcoholic beverages to let loose. Despite nothing wrong with having a couple of drinks with friends, it becomes a problem when people make the reckless decision to get behind the wheel while intoxicated. People often don’t realize the effect alcohol has on their minds and bodies. They think since they don’t feel the immediate effects of alcohol, they can continue drinking and will be fine. However, alcohol remains in the stomach and intestines for several hours after you’ve stopped drinking, impairing your decision-making skills and cognition. Therefore, many drivers believe they are acceptable to drive when in reality, they are still intoxicated, which increases the chances of being involved in a drunk driving accident.
What should I do if a drunk driver hits me?
If you are injured in an auto accident, the most important thing to do is call 911. You must seek medical attention immediately to receive treatment for your injuries. This measure will also provide you with documentation that can attest to the severity and extent of your injuries. Sometimes, you may not need to call the police if no one is injured or there is minimal property damage, as you can exchange information. However, if you suspect the other driver was operating their vehicle while under the influence, you must call the police.
Driving while under the influence is not only dangerous but downright illegal. Once the police arrive at the scene, they will investigate the cause of the collision. This includes administering a breathalyzer test and conducting a field sobriety test to determine the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC). If the driver’s BAC is 0.08% or greater, they are over the legal limit and have broken the law. The steps the police take at the accident scene are crucial as they can help you prove the other driver’s negligence.
If you have been injured in an accident due to a drunk driver, contact a determined drunk driving accident lawyer from Falcon Law Firm today. Our firm is committed to helping our clients fight for the just compensation they are entitled to.
