The dangers of drunk driving

When one has had one too many, oftentimes there is a false confidence that navigating their car home won’t be an issue. In Washington State, driving with even a little bit of alcohol or marijuana in your system is against the law. Driving under the influence is dangerous and not worth the risk.

Driving under the influence can lead to injuries and death

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is not only illegal, it greatly increases the chances of causing a serious accident. If the accident involves another vehicle, there is a risk of seriously injuring or even killing the other driver and/or passengers. Serious accidents can lead to catastrophic injuries and may result in people being ejected from the vehicle, causing coma or even ending in death.

Long-term psychological issues

Being in an accident can cause serious psychological distress or PTSD for both the impaired driver and others impacted by their actions. If a driver is under the influence and is injured, or causes an accident that injures or kills someone else, those memories can haunt them for the rest of their life. If anyone is severely injured, perhaps even permanently disabled, the pain and psychological distress can last a lifetime.

When weighed against the potentially life-changing consequences from choosing to drive under the influence, drivers may feel better about a choice to bum a ride from a friend of call a ride share company to get them – and everyone else on the road – home safely.

Long term legal issues

The US Department of Transportation urges folks to “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over“. Washingtonians arrested for driving while impaired can face serious legal penalties including hefty fines, loss of driving privileges and/or drivers license, and/or possible jail time. In some cases alcohol and drug classes may be required, while others will be required to participate in a substance abuse treatment program often resulting in a life-long commitment to full sobriety. Other consequences include job loss or civil lawsuits from victims of an avoidable accident for which they were responsible.

Driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol is dangerous for everyone on the road. Instead of taking the risk, plan ahead by including a sober driver on your outing or setting aside funds for a rideshare such as Uber, Lyft, or if you’ve had one too many on a flight to the Emerald City, Wingz can get everyone home safely.

If you or someone you know has been injured by a someone who chose to drive under the influence, we can help. Contact us today.

Matthew D. Dubin

Matt Dubin has spent more than 20 years honing his skills as one of the top personal injury lawyers in the State of Washington. In his career, Matt has focused on protecting consumers from dangerous household products, medical mistakes, roadway accidents, and many other causes of injury. Matt has recovered nearly $20 million on behalf of his clients.

Education

• University of Washington School of Law, Seattle, Washington – J.D.
• Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut – B.A.

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