This week, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) issued a list of safe driving tips as part of the organization’s Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving for the upcoming holiday weekend. Although the long Memorial Day Weekend was established to honor the nation’s military heroes, it is also a time when more intoxicated drivers are normally on the streets. According to MADD, 158 people died in alcohol-related crashes across the United States over Memorial Day Weekend in 2010, the most recent year for which statistics are available.
Although police across the country will be stepping up their efforts to enforce drunk driving laws, drivers may also be able to protect themselves and their loved ones by following some additional guidelines. MADD encourages everyone who plans on consuming alcohol this weekend to ensure a plan is in place for a sober ride home. That plan may include arranging for a designated driver or simply calling a cab. Additionally, everyone traveling in a vehicle should always wear a seat belt. MADD also suggests drivers refrain from making telephone calls or texting behind the wheel as such behavior can be distracting. Following all posted speed limits and simply paying extra attention to other vehicles on the road may also help improve safety. Finally, MADD encourages all drivers to avoid any vehicle that is being operated in an erratic manner.
Car wrecks are one of the leading causes of serious injury in the United States each year. Alcohol use and abuse causes a staggering number of automobile accidents in Texas every day. Unfortunately, collisions that involve allegedly intoxicated drivers often result in death or serious physical harm. Oftentimes, an inebriated driver will carry inadequate liability insurance coverage. In limited circumstances, an individual who is hurt by or lost a family member to a drunk driver may be able to sue a bar or restaurant where the intoxicated driver was served alcohol. This is called a dram shop case. If you were injured by an allegedly intoxicated driver, you may be eligible to receive compensation for medical expenses, pain, suffering, lost wages, disability, and other damages. An experienced San Antonio personal injury lawyer can explain your rights and your options for recovery.
Contact the attorneys at Carabin Shaw if you were hurt by a driver believed to be intoxicated. Our hardworking Austin car accident attorneys understand the pain and uncertainty that can accompany an unexpected automobile crash. We are available to answer your questions and help you file your case. At Carabin Shaw, our hardworking lawyers represent injured clients throughout the State of Texas including Beaumont, McAllen, Beeville, Laredo, El Paso, Seguin, Rockport, Austin, and San Antonio. To schedule a free confidential consultation with a skilled Texas attorney, call Carabin Shaw toll free at (800) 862-1260 or contact our dedicated lawyers through the law firm’s website.
More Blogs:
Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits in Texas, Texas Injury Lawyers Blog, May 16, 2012
NHTSA Proposal Would Require 18 Wheelers to Install Stability Control Systems, Texas Injury Lawyers Blog, May 8, 2012
Additional Resources:
MADD Provides Tips to Help Drivers Stay Safe on the Road this Memorial Day Weekend, MADD Press Release dated May 21, 2012