DUI/DWI Car Accidents
In Alabama, driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) is illegal. (Note that DUI and DWI are frequently used interchangeably, though in some states they mean different things.) In 2008, almost 32% of all fatal auto accidents involved drivers with a blood alcohol level over the legal limit (.08). In Alabama, that number was 33%.1 This is a frightening statistic. This number does not include those who are injured in serious, non-fatal accidents involving drivers who are legally intoxicated.
While educational and law enforcement efforts to curb drunk driving have increased over the past several years, too many individuals still drink and drive, putting others at risk of injury or death. More disturbing are the number of repeat DUI offenders who are on the roads. Alabama has in place alcohol server liability laws that hold any bar, restaurant or package store liable for damages if they sell alcohol to an individual who appears to be intoxicated. As of April 2011, the state legislature is considering legislation that would require ignition interlock devices on all vehicles owned by anyone with more than one drunk driving conviction or with one conviction where the blood alcohol level was more than .15. According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), there are over 54,000 people with three or more DUI convictions and another 22,000+ with five or more convictions in Alabama alone.
Until all individuals who drink choose not to drive, we are all at increased risk on the road. If you have been injured or a loved one has died as the result of a DUI offender, talk to the experienced personal injury attorneys at Martinson & Beason. Click here to download our Special Report outlining the questions you should ask before hiring an attorney. Our Alabama car accident lawyers handle all automobile accident cases on a contingency fee basis, which means we do not charge you a fee until and unless we make a recovery for you.
If you or a loved one has suffered a personal injury contact our experienced and dedicated Huntsville car accident attorneys. The evaluation is free and confidential.
Email us or call us toll free at 1-800-255-6534.
Resources
Drunk Driving Statistics and Facts
Types of Damages in an Alabama Drunk Driving Car Accident
1 http://www.census.gov/compendia/statab/2011/tables/11s1110.pdf