Car accidents happen for a number of reasons that are often beyond our control. Those caused by drunk drivers seem to be particularly senseless. Sadly, this is reportedly a common occurrence in South Carolina. Those who have lost a loved one at the hands of a drunk driver may seek compensation for any damages incurred as a result of the incident.
At the beginning of every year, statistics from the previous years are reported for a variety of things on both state and national levels. Recently, a report was issued regarding the number of DUI-related deaths nationwide for 2013. South Carolina, unfortunately, did not rank well. In fact, this state is currently considered the worst in the country for deaths caused by drunk drivers.
According to information released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, South Carolina had a total of 767 traffic-related deaths in 2013. Alcohol use reportedly contributed to approximately 44 percent of those, or 335 collisions. The national average for DUI-related deaths is believed to be 31 percent. While state officials claim to have seen improvement on these types of accidents, there is still a long way to go.
Too many families in South Carolina have been negatively impacted by alcohol-related car accidents. Not only do these incidents often leave family members emotionally distraught, but the financial consequences can also be devastating. Certain damages — such as lost wages, funeral expenses, medical costs and others — may be recoverable under state laws if wrongful death and survival action claims, where appropriate, are successfully litigated in civil court.
Source: free-times.com, “S.C. Worst In Nation For Percentage of Drunk Driving Deaths“, Chris Trainor, Jan. 14, 2015