Our roadways are dangerous enough as-is, but when someone or multiple people are driving under the influence, it can lead to fatal auto accidents.
Tragically, catastrophic car accidents occur every day without the aid of alcohol or drugs. When conscientious drivers share the road with drivers operating their vehicles while under the influence, however, the risk of a severe or even deadly accident rises astronomically.
Driving Under the Influence in Utah
Sadly, drunk driving has become an increasingly more significant problem in the state of Utah after years of being on the decline. In 2020, 47 deaths resulted from an alcohol-related car crash. When we use the term “driving under the influence,” we often associate it with the use of alcohol, but driving with drugs in your system can also result in a DUI. In Utah, during 2020, 118 deaths were caused by drug use, both illegal and prescription.
It’s essential to remember that during the year 2020, there were significantly fewer cars on the road due to the Covid-19 pandemic. So, with two statistics that still demonstrate a high number of fatal accidents due to someone operating a vehicle under the influence, this is a high-level concern for state officials.
In the 1980s, between 93 and 140 people were killed in drunk driving auto accidents each year between 1982 and 1989. In 1984, drunk driving accidents accounted for 44 percent of all auto accident fatalities. Since then, we have seen improvement, but we still have work to do. Keep reading to find out what you can do to make a difference.
Preventing Driving Under the Influence
You can make a difference in preventing yourself and others from driving drunk or under the influence of another substance. Here’s what you can do:
- If you’re going out with a group, designate a non-drinking driver
- If you go out alone, refrain from drinking, or use a ride-share program to get to and from your destination
- If you can safely do so, take away the keys from someone who is under the influence and about to drive
- Always refuse to get in the car with someone you know has been drinking or has used a mind-altering substance
Arrange for an Evaluation With Flickenger Sutterfield & Boulton
Suppose you or a member of your family sustained an injury, or you lost a family member in an auto accident caused by someone driving under the influence. In that case, you deserve compensation for your losses and expenses. While no money could ever truly make you whole again, there is some justice to be had in knowing that the person responsible for your suffering must answer for their negligence. When it comes to litigating claims involving auto accidents and driving under the influence, the personal injury attorneys of Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton work tirelessly to ensure that our client’s best interests are served and that justice is achieved.
We urge you to contact one of our law firms in Provo, Saratoga Springs, West Jodan, and Orem, Utah, today to arrange for an evaluation of your auto accident case. We would be pleased to advise you of your legal rights and options.
If you would like to arrange for an evaluation of your auto accident case or simply learn more about auto accident claims involving driving under the influence, please contact the law firm of Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton today.