AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety looked at the beliefs and behaviors of drivers in the United States regarding driving under the influence of alcohol and marijuana. The study asked 6,612 drivers about their beliefs and behaviors regarding drunk and drugged driving from 2013 to 2015. In some cases, the results were shocking.
Some of the key findings in the study included:
- Two in three drivers reported occasional use of alcohol
- One in ten drivers reported using marijuana
- 14% of respondents admitted to driving under the influence of alcohol in the past year
- Almost five percent of respondents admitted to driving under the influence of marijuana in the past year
- Over one-half of the drivers believed that using marijuana within an hour of driving increased their risk of a crash and almost one-third of respondents did not know how marijuana impacted driving ability
- Almost all drivers believe it is unacceptable to drive after drinking too much or using marijuana and drinking alcohol
- A majority of drivers believe the legal BAC limit should be lowered from .08 to .05
Even though most of the drivers surveyed believed they should not drink and drive or drive after using marijuana, many of them admitted they had done so within the past year. Thousands of drivers get behind the wheel after using drugs or drinking alcohol. These drivers cause millions of dollars in damage and injury or kill thousands of people each year.
Who is Responsible in a Drunk or Drugged Driving Accident?
As with any accident, if a drunk or drugged driver causes the accident, he or she is liable for any damages arising from that accident. However, you must prove that the driver caused the collision to recover compensation for your injuries. Proving the driver was drunk or drugged is not sufficient. Being intoxicated or drugged is a factor but not conclusive proof the driver caused the accident.
As with all other traffic accident claims, you must have evidence showing how the crash occurred and that the other driver did something to cause the crash (i.e. failed to yield right of way, following too closely, speeding, etc.). Once you prove the other driver caused the crash, you must also prove that you suffered injuries and damages because of the crash. Only after proving these elements can you recover compensation for your damages.
An experienced New Orleans DUI accident attorney can help you gather evidence to prove your claim. You should never assume that a DUI accident claim is a “sure thing.” It is always in your best interest to discuss your legal options before discussing the accident with an insurance adjuster, providing a statement to the adjuster, or accepting a settlement.
Call Now for A Free Appointment
If you have been injured in a DUI accident or drugged driving accident, we want to help you recover the compensation you deserve. For a free consultation and no-obligation case evaluation, call Attorney Fred Olinde of The Olinde Firm at (504) 587-1440 or 1-800-587-1889. You may also request more information by using the contact form on our website.