Contributing Negligence To Drunk Driving Accidents
Drunk driving accidents occur with an alarming level of frequency, and many collisions result in fatalities and permanent injuries. When a drunk driver takes over the wheel, the alcohol-induced impairments might dull perceptions and reaction times while putting the driver at risk of passing out behind the wheel. Accident victims would likely sue the driver responsible for a drunk driving accident, and the litigation may not stop there. A civil lawsuit could seek compensation from all parties contributing to the negligence. Sometimes, those who furnished alcohol to the impaired driver might face a personal injury claim.
Negligence and Alcohol Consumption
Anyone who drives a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol breaks the law, and such actions could establish negligence if an accident results. When the driver commits moving violations while intoxicated, such as speeding or zooming through a stop sign, these behaviors may further prove the driver's negligence. An investigation after the collision might point fingers of blame toward others whose actions played a negligent role.
Knowing the Driver Is Drunk
Friends and family might not have any issues with giving their car keys to an intoxicated person. Perhaps they've seen the person driving under the influence without causing an accident, leaving them to think they can drive without trouble. They may assume a collision won't happen because the driver only goes up a short distance to the store via a side street. Such assumptions could be regrettably dangerous, as a drunk driver might cause a fatal accident in any traffic environment. Knowingly lending a car to an intoxicated person could leave the owner open to liability claims if the driver causes a crash.
Providing Alcohol to an Impaired Person
Those who furnish alcohol to someone under the influence might share liability if the person causes an accident. If someone ingests five whiskey shots and is heavily impaired, a friend or party host who continues to give the person alcohol plays a role in the individual's impaired state. Knowing that person intends to drink and drive may add to the furnisher's negligent behavior. However, the friend who gives an intoxicated person more alcohol might be liable even if nobody intends to drive.
Victims Seeking Compensation
Anyone injured in a drunk driving accident may face dire financial consequences. A personal injury lawsuit may help those dealing with bills, lost income, and other losses by procuring a settlement that delivers compensation.
Consult a lawyer today to learn more about different auto accident situations.