While March is not National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month, it is always a good time. generate awareness of the dangers that these two activities can create when getting behind the wheel. If you are drinking or doing drugs and you start to drive, you are putting yourself at a greater risk of getting into a Connecticut auto accident and getting injured, or worse, killed.
So, the first thing to remember is to avoid getting behind the wheel while under the influence of any substance that could cause you to have dulled senses. Despite all of the great research and information available surrounding the dangers of drunk driving specifically there are still many people who put themselves, or the passengers in their vehicles, at great risk when they drink and drive.
In many cases, knowing the statistics about the dangers of this behavior will help prevent you from driving after having a few drinks at a party or just when you’re out with friends. So, let’s dig into some of the statistics about this dangerous behavior, as some of them may stun you.
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According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) there are approximately 32 deaths from drunk driving EVERY DAY in the United States. This is the number of deaths, not just accidents.
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The NHTSA also reports that in 2020, deaths from alcohol impaired driving accidents increased by 14% over the previous year to 11,654 deaths. This is a staggering number!
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Even a small amount of alcohol can lead to a fatality behind the wheel. The NHTSA reported that in 2020 there were 2,041 people who died in an alcohol related accident that were NOT over the legal limit. In Connecticut, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level is .08, which means these fatal accidents involved folks who were under that level.
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Even a person driving with a BAC of .02 will have reduced visual function and a limited ability to perform two tasks at once while driving.
These numbers from the NHTSA should not be taken lightly, and should be spread via social media to get the word out. Getting behind the wheel of a vehicle after having just one drink can be deadly and lead to a Connecticut auto accident that has serious consequences.
If you have been involved in an accident that led to an injury due to someone who was driving while under the influence of alcohol, we can help. Contact our office and one of our experienced attorneys will speak with you about your circumstances and work with you to protect your long-term interests.
