Drunk driving in Essex County
Car accidents can be caused by many different factors. When these factors involve the negligence and poor decision-making on the part of others, the angst that victims can experience is great. Such is the case when a serious accident results when a person who is too drunk to drive still gets behind the wheel of a vehicle.
How prevalent is drunk driving in Essex County?
A quick glance at news headlines tells readers that drunk driving is more prevalent than it should be. A story in the Eagle Tribune recounted the criminal charges now facing a Massachusetts state trooper for his role in a drunk driving car crash in North Andover. The man and his passenger were both injured when the vehicle ran into a utility pole. The passenger was sent by helicopter to a hospital in Boston due to the severity of his injuries. The trooper is currently awaiting trial in the case.
Patch.com gave details about an accident that sent four victims, including two children, to the hospital after a drunk driver hit their car. The impaired driver drove into oncoming traffic and hit the other car head-on.
A man in Marlborough was arrested for his fifth drunk driving incident according to WHDH.com. A minor was also riding in the vehicle when police stopped the driver. WCVB.com reported on a Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority bus driver who was arrested for driving drunk. The report suggests it is not fully known whether she was coming home from work or on her way to work when she was arrested.
What do the statistics show?
Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that nearly one-third of all vehicular fatalities in Essex County in 2013 were caused by drunk drivers. Out of a total of 33 deaths, 10 resulted from accidents involving alcohol.
Other NHTSA statistics for that year show the following:
- Suffolk County also recorded 10 drunk driving deaths.
- In Norfolk County, 11 people died in drunk driving accidents.
- In Middlesex County, 12 lives were lost at the hands of drunk drivers.
Statewide, a total of 326 deaths resulted in automobile crashes. Of those deaths, 118 are attributed to drunk driving crashes.
Victims should take action
People who are injured or lose loved ones in drunk driving accidents should always be prepared to get help. Compensation for injuries and loss is important. Talking to an attorney when these situations arise is recommended.
Keywords: drunk driving, accident, injury