On Nov. 30, the White House issued a proclamation designating December 2017 as National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. Drivers in Montana are probably familiar with the dangers of driving while intoxicated, but they can spread greater awareness and do what they can to keep intoxicated people from getting behind the wheel this month.
A good portion of the press release is devoted to some very relevant statistics. While alcohol used to contribute to two-thirds of traffic fatalities about 40 years ago, that number has since gone down. In the past few years, however, the trend has once again begun to assert itself: In 2016, for example, more than 10,000 people died in alcohol-related crashes. This made up 28 percent of that year’s traffic fatalities. Every 50 minutes, one person in the U.S. dies in an alcohol-related crash.
Moreover, 4.2 million Americans reported that they drove while impaired by alcohol at least once in a 30-day period. Even driving after one drink can lead to impairment. The administration, the proclamation stated, continues to work with law enforcement agencies, support American car manufacturers that are developing advanced technology and reduce regulations that hinder their development.
Unfortunately, with the holidays giving rise to celebrations across the country, some people will ignore the warnings and drive under the influence of alcohol. When motor vehicle accidents arise as a result of impaired driving, drivers can be held liable for any damage they cause. This is where the victim may want to hire a lawyer. A lawyer might hire investigators to show clearly how reckless the other driver was before negotiating with the insurance companies for a settlement. It is possible that the victim will be compensated for medical bills, vehicle damage and lost wages.