An Experienced Car Accident Lawyer Provides the Details
Despite decades of public awareness campaigns about the dangers of drunk driving, alcohol-related car accidents continue to cause serious injuries and fatalities in Massachusetts and across the United States.
In recent years, ridesharing has grown in popularity. Companies such as Uber and Lyft offer a service that gives people a way to get home after they’ve been drinking without having to risk driving and possibly causing a crash.
A recent study published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs finds that in cities where ridesharing is used frequently, there may be fewer drunk driving crashes. Researchers looked specifically at the impact of ridesharing in Chicago.
Christopher Morrison, assistant professor of epidemiology at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health (which conducted the study), said density of active rideshare trips near a crash site was associated with decreased odds that the crash was alcohol-involved, according to an article on the Columbia Mailman School website.
Drunk Driving in Massachusetts
The study serves as a reminder that anyone who chooses to drink alcohol should avoid getting behind the wheel. Ridesharing is one way to protect against the dangers of drinking and driving.
Here are other ways to make good decisions:
- Choose a non-drinking designated driver every time you go out.
- If you go out alone, order a non-alcoholic beverage such as a soft drink or water.
- If you are out alone and have been drinking, call a friend, family member, or a ridesharing service such as Uber, Lyft, or a taxi to take you home.
- Don’t get into a car with someone who has been drinking.
- If someone has been drinking and intends to drive, take their keys away and help them find a safe way home.
Holding Drunk Drivers Accountable
Unfortunately, drunk driving accidents continue to happen every day. Despite your best efforts to avoid one, you might be involved in an accident through no fault of your own. Another driver’s irresponsible decision could mean you are facing serious injuries. Tragically, drunk driving also takes lives. You may be struggling with the death of a loved one.
Alcohol-related accidents can turn your life upside down. You may have medical bills and other financial losses. The death of a loved one may not only hurt emotionally but also can mean a loss of financial support.
Insurance companies may offer lowball settlements. In some cases, they may deny the claim and say you were somehow at fault. The process can be frustrating and difficult, especially when you’re trying to recover and put your life back together.
A Car Accident Attorney Can Fight for You
That’s why it’s smart to contact an experienced drunk driving accident attorney in Massachusetts. Contact the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone today for a free consultation. Our knowledgeable and aggressive attorneys can fight to protect your rights and hold the drunk driver accountable for your losses.
We work cases on contingency, which means you pay no attorney fees unless you win. Talk to us today to find out about your legal options after a drunk driving crash. Tell them you mean business!