In the early hours of May 2, 2013, a Mercedes vehicle driven by 26-year-old Donta L. Riddick of Bay Shore, New York crashed into a home before striking a utility pole. Then the vehicle burst into flames. Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene and transported Riddick to Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center, where he was treated for minor injuries. Luckily no one was seriously injured, but the extent of the property damage resulting from Riddick’s actions serves as a reminder of the consequences of drunk driving.
If you have been involved in an accident due to a drunk driver’s negligence, our experienced team of New York car accident lawyers can help you determine whether you have a case and recover the compensation you deserve.
Call 1-800-NOW-HURT for a free consultation.
Drunk Driving Statistics and Injuries
Drunk driving is a serious issue that leads to numerous accidents, injuries, and fatalities every year, and unfortunately the numbers are getting worse. According to the Center for Disease Control, 30% of road traffic fatalities were a result of alcohol-impaired driving in 2020, and there were 11,654 deaths total. This is a sharp increase from 14.3% in 2019.
In addition to fatalities, non-fatal injuries can be devastating. Some of the most common injuries in cases involving drunk drivers include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries, possibly resulting in paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal injuries and organ damage
- Whiplash and other neck injuries
- Severe lacerations and cuts
- Burns and scars from vehicle fires or explosions
- Amputations and loss of limbs
- Psychological trauma, including PTSD and anxiety
These injuries can require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, and often result in significant physical, emotional, and financial impacts. If you find yourself in this position, it may be beneficial to contact a New York car accident attorney. A good attorney will be well-versed in the legalities surrounding serious accidents, and can help you maximize the damages you can recover.
Legal Consequences of Drunk Driving
Our car accident lawyers serving New York find it important to note that in the event of an accident, a DWI is not the only charge that can be brought against a motorist. In addition to his DWI, Riddick was charged with reckless driving, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, leaving the scene of an accident, and unlawful possession of marijuana. As you can see, these charges can pile up, and they come with severe penalties including fines, jail time, and suspension or revocation of driving privileges.
Can I Sue a Drunk Driver?
If a drunk driver caused you to be injured, you can file a personal injury lawsuit in civil court to recover damages. In this case, it’s important to understand the distinction between civil and criminal cases.
While a criminal case focuses on punishing the drunk driver for breaking the law, a civil case aims to compensate the victims for their losses. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs.
To ensure that your personal injury case is successful, it’s important to gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records to support your claim. Our experienced team can guide you through the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Remember, a criminal conviction of the drunk driver can strengthen your civil case, but it’s not a prerequisite for filing a lawsuit. The burden of proof for a criminal case is much higher than in civil court. Don’t let a drunk driver’s reckless behavior go unchallenged.
