During the past few years, drunk driving has been a significant focus. Even though it is good news that a lot of people are aware of the dangers of drinking and driving, it is also true that many people continue to die in drunk driving car accidents every day. According to a recent report that the NHTSA published, more than 30 people die in drunk-driving car accidents every day. This is more than one person every hour. Because it is such a significant issue, people must understand how to protect themselves and what to do if they are involved in a motor vehicle accident. What do people need to know?
Drinking and Driving Is Very Dangerous
First, everyone needs to know that drinking and driving are incredibly dangerous. There are a lot of people who believe that they can continue to stay focused even after they have been drinking. In reality, this is not the case. If someone decides to drink and drive, they seriously impair their judgment. This means that people are prone to making decisions they would not otherwise make if they did not drink and drive.
Furthermore, when someone drinks and drives, they are more likely to fall asleep behind the wheel. This could mean that drivers might lose control of their vehicles, which increases their chances of being involved in a motor vehicle accident. Finally, drinking also removes someone’s inhibitions, causing them to take more risks than they otherwise would. Drunk driving is still one of the leading causes of motor vehicle accidents.
Other Options Are Available
One common reason why people drink and drive is that they believe that they need to get home. The good news is that there are alternatives for those who need to get home after a night of drinking. For example, plenty of rideshare options are available, allowing someone to call a ride home with a push of a button. There are also traditional taxis that would be happy to give someone a ride home. There might even be situations where the authorities would be willing to give someone a ride back to their house. This is undoubtedly better than the alternative of drinking and driving.
Seek Medical Care
Anyone involved in a motor vehicle accident should seek medical care as quickly as possible. Too often, people delay a trip to the doctor. They might feel fine after a motor vehicle accident, but most of this is because of the adrenaline going through someone’s body. The adrenaline can mask many symptoms people experience when they wake up the following day. Sometimes, adrenaline could be masking a particularly serious injury. It is always better for someone to seek medical care sooner rather than later. This can make a significant difference in the overall prognosis.
Don’t Forget To Call a Lawyer
After seeking medical care, it is essential for anyone who has been involved in a motor vehicle accident to reach out to a lawyer. Being involved in a drunk driving accident can be incredibly stressful, but this is not something that people need to face on their own. A car accident attorney understands how to evaluate all factors following a motor vehicle collision, ensuring that everyone’s rights are adequately protected. A lawyer can take a lot of the stress off someone’s shoulders, allowing them to focus on their medical recovery.
