Sadly, numerous South Carolina residents have lost loved ones in fatal auto collisions. Many of these car accidents having been caused by drivers who were impaired by drugs and/or alcohol. When fatal crashes occur as a result of impairment, the victims’ surviving family members may not know where to turn. Thankfully, they may seek the assistance of legal counsel if they wish to pursue legal actions against the individuals responsible.
Driving while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol is something that occurs far too frequently. Too many drivers simply do not consider the full consequences of this type of behavior. Because of this, thousands of people die annually across the country in car accidents caused by intoxicated drivers. In fact, it is believed that 32 percent of all fatal collisions can be attributed to impairment.
South Carolina and other states have taken steps and continue to look for ways to help reduce the number of impaired driving accidents. However, despite public awareness campaigns and strict laws and punishments for those convicted of driving while intoxicated, approximately 29 million people across the country admitted to driving with alcohol in their systems in 2012. In 2013, nearly 10 million people admitted to driving while under the influence of illicit drugs.
Unfortunately, the chances of being involved in a fatal auto collision with an impaired driver are pretty high. When such fatal car accidents do occur, surviving family members may have legal recourse. With help, they can pursue legal claims in a South Carolina civil court in an effort to seek compensation for any damages sustained.
Source: ncadd.org, “Driving While Impaired — Alcohol and Drugs“, Accessed on May 1, 2016