Percentage of Drugged Driver is Going Up
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration conducted a voluntary roadside survey to collect data on drugged driving. The survey involved collecting blood and saliva samples from drivers who volunteered. The results proved that the percentage of drivers testing positive for marijuana, or other narcotics, increased. In 2007 the rate was 12.4% and it rose to 15.1% by 2014. They also found out that 38% of fatal car accidents in 2013 involved drivers with detectable levels of impairing drugs. Which is nearly the same percentage as intoxicated drivers.
Impact of Impaired Driving
The total number of deaths in alcohol-impaired crashes has been hovering around the tens of thousands since 2010. Texas is known for having tragedy stats when it comes to DWI accidents. In 2015, our state ranked among the top 5 states with the highest percentage of alcohol-impaired deaths. That year Texas witnessed 1323 deaths at the hands of drunk driving crashes. That’s shocking considering that the state with the second highest number was Connecticut with 103 deaths. Ironically, this was the same year that Texas had fewer alcohol related car wrecks when compared to the year before. Texas was one of 18 states that achieved this and lead the way with 123 fewer deaths than in 2014.
Hit by a Impaired Driver, What Now?
Anyone hit by a drunk, or impaired, driver is recommended to seek legal help from a personal injury attorney. Car accidents can bring a mountain of problems. Medical bills, time loss from work due to injuries, can leave victims with a financial burden. Insurance companies can deny claims and add to the chaos of the aftermath. A personal injury or car wreck attorney can provide the legal help to get the financial support you need to get life back on track.
Davis Law Firm is here 24/7 to listen to everyone’s case. Our legal representatives offer free consultations at no risk to you. If you or a loved one has been injured by a distracted or drunk driver contact us today! We have offices in San Antonio, Corpus Christi, McAllen, Harlingen, Brownsville and Waco, Texas! Call the 4’s or Call the 9’s! 210-444-4444 / 956-444-4444 / 361-999-9999.