The scariest part of Halloween isn’t witches, zombies, or vampires – it’s the drunk drivers.

Every year on October 31st, the number of drunk driving accidents skyrockets, causing numerous personal injuries and fatalities. On Halloween of 2020 alone, there were 56 deaths caused by intoxicated drivers – in just one night. We want to bring this number down to zero on Halloween this year – take a look at these terrifying DUI statistics.

  • More than 25% of all traffic accident fatalities are caused by alcohol impairment.
  • Drivers with a BAC over 0.10 are seven times more likely to get into a fatal car crash.
  • 69.5% of respondents did not believe that alcohol had a significant effect on them in a 2020 survey conducted by The Zebra.
  • An estimated 30 people die every day in the United States due to drunk driving accidents. That’s equivalent to one person every 50 minutes.

On Halloween, the likelihood of getting into an accident with a driver under the influence is even higher than other times of year. What should you do if you’re on the road with a drunk driver? What safe driving tips should drivers use to avoid an accident on Halloween this year?

  • If you suspect that another driver on the road is intoxicated, keep a safe distance until you can get away from them safely. Call the local police and report the driver.
  • Some indicators of drunk driving include sudden braking, fluctuating speed, swerving, and displays of road rage.
  • Reduce your speed, and drive slowly in residential areas.
  • Stop at all stop signs, and slow down at crosswalks. Trick-or-treaters may run out unexpectedly.
  • Increase following distance behind other vehicles – they may have to brake suddenly for pedestrians.
  • Make sure that your brakes, headlights, high beams, and turning signals are in working order.
  • Keep your mirrors, windshield, and windows clean to increase visibility.
  • Avoid driving when it gets dark. If you have to drive in the dark, stay alert for pedestrians and drunk drivers.

 

“What if I get hit by a drunk driver?”

If you’ve been injured in a car, truck, or motorcycle accident caused by an intoxicated driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your crash-related personal injuries. Statutes of limitations and caps on damages vary by state. Here’s what you need to know about the personal injury laws for car accidents in Kansas and Missouri.

Missouri

  • The statute of limitations to pursue compensation for injuries caused by a drunk driving collision is five years.
  • Missouri has no caps in place regarding personal injury damages for car accidents.
  • Missouri is an at-fault state, which means that the driver who caused the motor vehicle accident is responsible for paying damages to the personal injury victim.

Kansas

  • The statute of limitations to pursue compensation for personal injuries caused by a drunk driver is only two years.
  • The cap for non-economic damages such as pain and suffering is $350,000. Economic damages such as medical expenses for personal injuries have no cap.
  • Kansas is a no-fault state, which means that the individual’s auto insurance is primarily responsible for covering damages after an accident, regardless of who caused the crash. However, you can file a lawsuit if your personal injuries meet the state’s requirements.

If you’ve suffered personal injuries in a traffic accident caused by someone else, don’t foot the bill. Contact The Pottenger Law Firm as soon as possible to schedule your initial consultation for free legal advice from a Kansas City personal injury attorney near you.