People in the Kansas City area have probably heard many times, from many different sources, about how dangerous drunk driving is. One need only pay attention to the news, and they will likely hear a story about a family losing a loved one to an auto accident because of drunk driving.
It is unfortunate, then, that Missouri still has a remarkably high rate of drunk driving. When compared to other states, Missouri ranked 6th worst among the states for incidents of drunk driving. It should be noted, though, that information was only available for 38 of the 50 states. Still, the high rate is sobering for those here in Missouri.
According to the same report, almost 11,000 people die annually due to drunk drivers. The report also determined that, overwhelmingly, men were more likely to engage in drunk driving. In fact, over 80 percent of incidents of drunk driving involved men.
On a related note, young men, that is, those between 21 and 34, accounted for a disproportionate number of drunk driving incidents. While this segment accounts for just over 10 percent of the American population, it accounts for almost one-third of all drunk driving accidents.
Hopefully, the state will work to fight against the apparent and ongoing problem with drunk driving. However, law enforcement efforts aside, it is important for victims of drunk drivers to remember that they have the right to pursue compensation for their losses. In the right circumstances, punitive damages may also be available. A skilled attorney can help a victim understand their legal options.
