The Fourth of July is America’s birthday. To celebrate, many enjoy cookouts and beer or other alcoholic beverages. While this is perfectly acceptable, what is not acceptable is drinking and driving.
Last year, the California Highway Patrol reported that they made 100 DUI-related arrests all over San Diego County throughout the Fourth of July holiday weekend. The previous year, police only made 37 arrests. Statewide, CHP officers arrested 1,431 suspected DUI drivers. Along with making arrests, police responded to one fatal DUI crash in San Diego County and 29 other fatal DUI-related crashes throughout the state.
In an effort to minimize the number of drunk drivers on the road, police will increase patrols and set up DUI checkpoints. As you make plans for the holiday weekend, be aware that there will be more people on the road, including more drunk drivers. Statistics show that the deadliest hours are from 6 p.m. to 5:59 a.m. Try to avoid driving at night and be sure you do not allow anyone to drive who is impaired.
Drinking and driving is illegal in all 50 states. If you consume alcohol and have a blood-alcohol level of .08 percent or higher you are not allowed to operate a vehicle. However, many still do, which leads to crashes, injuries and even deaths. If you were injured in an accident that was not your fault, there is a chance the at-fault driver was impaired. When a driver acts in a negligent way, such as drinking and driving or texting and driving, and causes an accident, the driver can be held responsible for damages to the victim. This can include compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering and lost income due to the inability to work because of injuries sustained in the accident.
If you have been injured in an accident caused by a negligent driver, act quickly and speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer about your case. The team at the Gilleon Law Firm, APC have extensive experience representing the victims of drunk drivers. We can help you accurately estimate your damages, build a personal injury case and represent you during the proceedings. From settlement negotiation to court if necessary, we will be there every step of the way to ensure your rights are fully exercised and your case accurately represented. Give us a call today for more information.