Distracted driving and drunk driving cause thousands of injuries and fatalities every year. Both behaviors create dangerous conditions on the road, leading to serious accidents and legal consequences. If a distracted or drunk driver has harmed you or a loved one, understanding the risks can help you seek justice.
How distracted driving leads to accidents
Distracted driving occurs when a driver takes their hands, eyes, or focus away from the road. Texting, eating, or using in-car entertainment systems can result in severe crashes. In Texas, it is illegal to text while driving, yet many drivers continue to engage in this risky behavior. Those injured in distracted driving accidents often suffer from life-altering injuries, including spinal damage, traumatic brain injuries, and broken bones.
The dangers of drunk driving crashes
Drunk driving slows reaction time, impairs judgment, and reduces coordination. Texas law prohibits driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Drunk drivers are responsible for many catastrophic collisions, often resulting in permanent disability or loss of life. These accidents may cause injuries that require extensive medical treatment and ongoing rehabilitation, leading to significant financial and emotional burdens.
The risk of serious injuries in both cases
Both distracted and drunk driving are preventable yet continue to cause devastating accidents. Studies show that texting while driving can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. A texting driver may not see a pedestrian, another vehicle, or an obstacle until it is too late. When someone else’s negligence leads to injuries, those injured have the right to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Holding negligent drivers accountable
Individuals injured in drunk and distracted driving accidents can seek damages for their losses. Legal claims can help cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and other financial burdens caused by reckless drivers.
