Drunk driving extends far beyond a moral issue. When a crash results from someone choosing to get behind the wheel when intoxicated, it can have extensive physical, emotional, and financial impacts that may take years to recover from. To better understand how impactful this issue truly is, it's important to know what these effects may look like for the victim, their family, and other parties involved.
Physical Impacts of These Crashes
One of the most immediately obvious impacts of drunk driving crashes is the physical toll it can take on the bodies of those involved. Drunk driving collisions often occur at high speeds, and the resulting impact can cause serious injuries or even death.
Injuries sustained in drunk driving crashes can range from minor cuts and bruises to more severe injuries like broken bones, internal bleeding, and traumatic brain injuries. In some cases, the injured individual will require long-term or even life-long care due to the severity of their injuries.
The physical impact of a drunk driving crash can also extend beyond those who are directly involved in the collision. First responders, like police officers and paramedics, can also be exposed to physical danger when responding to these types of accidents.
How Those Involved Are Affected Emotionally
The emotional impact of a drunk driving collision can be just as severe as physical injuries. Victims of drunk driving crashes often suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. These mental health conditions can majorly impact every aspect of a person’s life, including their work, relationships, and social activities.
The families of those killed in drunk driving accidents often suffer from grief, guilt, and anger. They may struggle to cope with their loss and find it difficult to move on with their lives.
Financial Costs of Drunk Driving Crashes
A program report from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) found that the average alcohol-related crash fatality costs Texas over $3.3 million—amounting to roughly $3 billion overall in a given year. And these costs don’t even consider the non-fatal injuries and property damage that can also result from drunk driving collisions.
Victims of drunk driving crashes often face a long road to recovery, both physically and emotionally. This means they may miss out on work, incur medical bills, and require long-term care. These financial burdens can be overwhelming and put a strain on both the victim and their family.
In some cases, the families of those killed in drunk driving accidents may be eligible for financial assistance through wrongful death lawsuits. These lawsuits can help cover funeral costs, lost income, and other damages.
Texas Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys
When your family needs legal assistance after losing a loved one at the hands of a drunk driver, Law Offices Of Vic Feazell, P.C. can help. We have been dedicated advocates for injury victims and their families for decades and can help you achieve the compensation you deserve. Call (254) 938-6885 or fill out this short form to discuss your legal options.