Winter weather conditions and the holiday season can always be a dangerous combination on Connecticut roadways. People are frequently rushing back and forth in general. When the weather is poor and roads are icy and wet, it adds a layer of risk. Then the number of holiday parties people attend with family, friends and at work can lead to many drivers making the unwise decision to get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol. When there is an auto accident and it is due to a drunk driver, it is imperative for those who were impacted to determine whether they have the right to seek compensation through a legal filing.
Driving under the influence is more than just going beyond the legal limit of alcohol in a person’s system. Even a small amount of alcohol can have hinder reactions and lead to drivers making decisions they would ordinarily not make were they completely sober. This can affect not just on another driver in a crash, but it can lead to a pedestrian accident, or a driver running onto the sidewalk and crashing into a busy store, restaurant or residence. People can suffer serious injuries and death as a result.
The accident itself is bad enough, but only when its aftermath is calculated will the extent of the damage be truly quantifiable. People who are lucky enough to survive can have brain damage, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, cuts and more. That is just the physical aspect. Mentally, this can result in them feeling fear and worry regardless of where they are and what they are doing. Lost time on the job and the inability to actively contribute to their family are also issues that must be considered. A legal filing is often the only viable strategy to recover a semblance of what was lost after being hit by a drunk driver.
It is easy to say that people should be cautious when on the road, but that will not change the reality that people will get behind the wheel under the influence and place others’ lives in jeopardy. When there is an auto accident and it is believed to have been due to a drunk driver, those who were hurt or lost a loved one must remember their rights and discuss a legal filing with a law firm that is experienced in investigating and pursuing claims after drunk driving accidents.
