A woman driving under the influence lost control of her 2005 Civic and crossed over the centerline striking a 1991 Civic killing its driver. The accident occurred around 5:30 am on Route 113 in Hilltown. Police say that the driver of the 1991 Civic was pronounced dead at the scene and the impaired driver was taken to St. Luke’s Hospital for nonlife-threatening injuries. She was arrested at the hospital and charged with DUI and homicide by vehicle.
Impaired Drivers in Kentucky
Over 6,000 accidents a year in Kentucky are attributed to impaired driving with alcohol being the primary impairing substance. The translates into over 3,000 injuries and 200 fatalities
In DUI deaths per 100,000 people, Kentucky ranks 8th worst in the nation with 4.3 deaths per year per 100,000 people. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) gives Kentucky two stars out of 5 for its drunk driving laws. The organization recommends certain action that the Kentucky legislature could take to increase its rating and hopefully lower the number of drunk drivers on the road.
- Revise Kentucky’s ignition interlock system for all offenders requiring compliance before removal. An ignition interlock requires that a person blow into a breathalyzer before starting their car.
- Allow the DMV to revoke licenses for certain alcohol-related driving offenses. Currently, only the courts can revoke a person’s driver’s license for a DUI.
- Make child endangerment while driving impaired a felony. (Driving impaired with minor in the car).
- Faster warrants (to order blood test) for those who refuse to take breathalyzer test.
DUI Injuries
Impaired drivers are unpredictable and erratic which can diminish the ability of other drivers on the road to drive defensively. This can cause severe injuries such as head trauma, broken bones, punctured lungs and other significant injuries. Not all injuries are physical as many have emotional and psychological injures as well. There is also often a large financial loss as the victim has medical bills, loss time from work, and a general loss of quality of life.
Do I need an attorney if I’m injured by an Impaired Driver?
The answer is almost always yes. There is a chance that the insurance company and their lawyers will do what’s right, however, this is not usually the case. Don’t let the insurance company give you as little as possible, but get someone who can stand up to them for you.
The attorneys at Kaufman and Stigger, PLLC, have that knowledge and a combined 100 years’ experience in helping clients get the results they deserve. To discuss your case, call Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC today, at (800) 937-8443 or click here to contact them online.
