This guide is designed to help you understand the steps to take in the hours and days following a car accident. If you have any questions not covered by the guide, please don’t hesitate to contact us right away.
An alleged drunk driver claimed another life recently, in addition to his own. According to the Sandusky Register, a Fremont Man was driving on U.S. 6 within Margaretta Township, Erie County, Ohio at 4:21 am when he went left of center, veering into the other lane of traffic, hitting a Bettsville man head on, who was driving a Nickles Bakery truck. The Bettsville man had recently reported to work and was on his delivery route. The collision occurred on the driver’s side of both vehicles, which caused both vehicles to eventually come to a final rest along the south side of the road. Ohio State Troopers suspect that alcohol and high speeds were factors in the crash, along with the fact that neither men were wearing their seat belts. This accident could have been avoided if the drunk driver decided not to get behind the wheel.
According to MADD, in 2014, 27.4% of all traffic deaths were deemed as fatalities caused by drunk drivers (.08 BAC or higher). Additionally, in 2014, Ohio had 12,137 alcohol related crashes (.01 BAC or higher). These numbers spike during the holidays – deaths from drinking and driving are to blame for about 52 percent of fatal collisions on Christmas and 57 percent on New Year’s Eve, compared to a rate of 41 percent for the entire year. More people traveling, coupled with an increased number of festivities where alcohol is served, has led to a surge in drunk driving.
If you have been injured or lost a loved one because of a crash caused by a drunk driver, the experienced Cleveland car accident lawyers at Tittle & Perlmuter can seek the compensation you deserve. Our personal injury attorneys understand that accidents and injuries caused by drunk drivers are unique and you may be entitled to punitive damages, in addition to compensatory damages. Give us a call for a free evaluation and consultation.