St. Patrick’s Day is quickly approaching and festivities will be in full swing this weekend and on Tuesday around the Westlake Village area. While considered a religious holiday in Ireland, in the U.S. St. Patrick’s Day is often celebrated with anything and everything green, including lots of green beer.
Since 2009, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that a total of 276 people have been killed in drunk driving crashes on St. Patrick’s Day. Many more have suffered injuries that resulted in painful and debilitating conditions. The devastating personal and financial implications suffered by victims of drunk driving accidents and their family members, can forever and negatively change lives.
To avoid causing or being involved in a car accident, individuals who plan to participate in St. Patrick’s Day festivities would be wise to plan for a sober driver or other safe mode of transportation. Many people wrongly assume they can still drive safely after having a couple of beers. In truth, it’s never safe to drive after consuming any amount of alcohol. In an effort to drive this point home, the NTSB wants to remind drivers that Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.
During 2012 alone, 774 people were killed in drunk driving accidents on California’s highways and roads. Several thousands more likely suffered painful injuries for which they sought medical care. Serious injuries including those to the back, neck and head are commonly suffered in car accidents and often adversely impact an individual’s ability to work and enjoy life. Additionally, the financial repercussions associated with being involved in a car accident may total into the tens of thousands.
In cases where an individual has been injured in a car accident caused by the negligent actions of another driver, it’s wise to explore one’s legal options. A personal injury lawsuit may help in the recovery of damages related to medical expenses, disability and lost wages.