Car accidents are often more common around holidays, particularly those traditionally paired with alcohol. Memorial Day is the deadliest single-day holiday to drive, with the Fourth of July not far behind. But the period between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day is, historically, the deadliest 10 to 12 days of the year.
Safeauto.com reports that, between December 31st and January 1st, there is a 71 percent increase in motor vehicle accidents caused by drunk or intoxicated drivers. This is more than twice the overall average. It is no wonder, then, that drunk driving is a factor in more than a quarter of all fatal motor vehicle accidents during December – or that this trend continues through the first few days of January.
Understanding Your Rights
When you are injured or an intoxicated driver kills a loved one, you are entitled to hold the responsible party accountable for all related damages. This may include financial damages, such as lost wages and medical expenses, and non-monetary damages, such as pain and suffering. Families who have lost a loved one may be able to seek even more, with damages including projected future financial contributions, lost 401k or retirement benefits, and end-of-life expenses.
However, while these cases may seem pretty cut-and-dry, it is always best to have an experienced legal team who can help you navigate the complexities of personal injury claims and seek the total compensation you are due. The attorneys at Brown & Brown are here to review your case free of charge so you can understand your rights and options and make the best decision for you and your family’s needs.
Even when an intoxicated driver has or will face criminal charges, a civil claim seeking compensatory damages can be filed on behalf of accident victims. Some compensation may be ordered during criminal proceedings, but this will pale compared to what can be sought through a personal injury or wrongful death claim. We are here to listen to your case and help you decide if taking legal action will be in your best interests.
Please call our St. Louis office at 314-333-3333 or our Fairview Heights office at 618-888-8888 to schedule your complimentary case review today.
