Most everyone understands the dangers of drinking and driving. Still, the numbers are overwhelming that large numbers of people drive while intoxicated. Drunk driving is a leading cause of traffic fatalities and injuries each year. Drunk drivers are not able to control their vehicles or react to emergencies in the same way sober drivers can. Drivers who are arrested for a DWI need experienced DUI lawyers on their side. A conviction for even a first-time DUI can result in a prison sentence, large fines, loss of driving privileges, and other consequences.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 10,497 people died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes in 2016. This number represents 28% of all US traffic-related fatalities for 2016.

There are a number of reasons people get into their vehicle while  they are intoxicated:

Some people just don’t know their limits

In all states, drivers who have a blood alcohol content of .08 or more can be charged with drunk driving. Commercial drivers can be charged with DUI if their BAC is .04 or more. Teenagers can be charged with a DUI if their BAC is .02 or more. Drivers who drive under these limits are often unsafe drivers, too. For many people, even one drink affects their ability to drive competently.

People think they won’t get caught

Some drivers think if they just drive small distances or in places where there isn’t much traffic, they won’t have a problem. They may think if they drive in residential areas, that’s safer than highway driving. The bottom line is that the law of averages will catch up with every driver. Sooner or later, a drunk driver will have an accident which injures or kills – a driver, a passenger, a pedestrian, or a bicycle rider.

They’re addicted

Many people who drive have a substance abuse problem. While there are drivers who might just have one drink at a party when they never drink otherwise, often a drunk driver has a dependency on alcohol. Being an alcoholic is not a defense to either a criminal charge or a civil complaint.

They didn’t arrange for a designated driver

Many people who go to a party, have a drink with family to celebrate a holiday or family achievement, or drink at a restaurant or hotel – don’t take the time to choose one person to be a designated driver. They also may not take the time to plan other routes such as calling for a taxi or an Uber.

There’s no excuse for drunk driving. At Delius & McKenzie, PLLC, our Sevierville car accident lawyers seek to hold drunk drivers responsible when they cause you harm. We also work to hold the owners of the vehicles, and anyone who sold liquor to the driver, accountable. Those responsible should pay for your pain and suffering, lost wages, and medical bills. For help with any car accident caused by a drunk driver, call (865) 428-8780 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We represent car accident victims – in Sevierville, Seymour, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and the surrounding Tennessee areas.