Many motorists act like their eyes, hands and feet have a mind of their own that will help them get wherever they need to go safely without ever having to give it thought. That’s not the case, however. Driving is as mind-intensive a task as it is a physical effort.
A person’s alcohol consumption can significantly impact their ability to operate their car safely, and this is why police are keen on pulling motorists over that they suspect of drunk driving. Sadly, some of those drivers will cause accidents before the police catch up with them, though.
How big of an issue is drunk driving in the U.S.?
The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) suggests that an estimated 40,000 kids suffer injuries in alcohol-related accidents annually in the U.S. At least 10,000 die in these crashes.
How does drunk driving impact a motorist’s driving abilities?
A motorist who drives under the influence (DUI) of alcohol may find it challenging to track objects, which is why they may struggle to keep their distance from other motorists. This factor also explains why intoxicated motorists find it challenging to obey traffic signals, road signs or pedestrians crossing the street.
Alcohol consumption may also adversely impact a person’s ability to reason and thus lead them to make poor choices, and alcohol may cause a driver to have impaired motor skills or attention spans. Individuals who consume alcohol may struggle with delayed visual processing, making it challenging for them to distinguish between colors or to experience blurriness.
Naturally, all of this affects their safety behind the wheel — and the safety of others on the road with them.
What should you do if a drunk driver struck you?
Drunk driving crashes often result in far victims suffering far more catastrophic injuries than they otherwise would. You’re liable to have significant medical and rehabilitation costs if you’re hurt in such a crash. An attorney here in Richmond can advise you how Kentucky law allows you to recover medical costs and other accident-related expenses when someone else’s negligence causes you an injury.