Drunk driving is a serious problem in North Carolina. All too often, people think they can drive home after drinking, when in reality, they should not be allowed anywhere near a vehicle. When these people make the choice to get behind the wheel of a car after consuming alcohol, they not only put themselves in danger, but they put the lives of everyone else on the road at risk as well.
Not long ago, a North Carolina family felt the serious repercussions of a drunk driving accident when they were hit by a driver who was suspected to be intoxicated. In late April, the family was driving to Easter vigil mass when the drunk driver slammed into their vehicle.
The mother, who was driving, was seriously injured and had to be hospitalized for three weeks after the accident. Three of her eight children were thrown from the vehicle. Fortunately, everyone survived the crash, but they are now left to live with the lasting repercussions.
The mother, a nurse, has not been able to work because of her injuries. She broke six bones in the crash, including her neck. Damage was also inflicted on her spine, lungs and kidneys. Her family is now facing soaring medical bills – the helicopter ride to the hospital alone cost $16,000 – and she will likely be subject to lengthy recovery time.
Police have charged the 26-year-old drunk driver with DWI, reckless driving and assault with a deadly weapon. Police suspect he may have been driving as fast as 90 mph when he collided with the family’s vehicle.
This incident is a clear illustration of the serious impact of drunk driving. As in this case, individuals injured by drunk drivers may be facing expensive medical bills that they were not financially prepared for. Fortunately, there may be ways to hold these negligent drivers accountable and obtain compensation for injuries.
Source: WFMY News 2, “Family Recovering After Accident With Suspected Drunk Driver,” Liz Palka, 29 May 2011