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NHTSA: DRUNK DRIVING ACCIDENTS KILLED 9,967 PEOPLE IN 2014

Matt Troutman Nov. 1, 2016

photoduneRainy weather, auto part defects, negligent road maintenance – all of these factors contribute to fatal accidents every year. Unlike these hazards, though, the most common causes of deadly collisions are entirely in the driver’s control. For example, drunk driving is the culprit behind a deplorable number of deaths on U.S. roads, yet all of these tragedies could have been prevented if the drivers had behaved responsibly.

carIn 2014, 9,967 people were killed in crashes involving an impaired driver, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In Kentucky, 2,041 people were killed in alcohol-related accidents between 2003 and 2012, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

If you were injured by a drunk driver, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income and other damages. If your family member died due to an intoxicated motorist, you may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit.

Matt Troutman is an accident attorney in Louisville who will evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim. Mr. Troutman will help you pursue the maximum settlement, and if your case goes to trial, he has the litigation experience and resources to represent your interests in court. Call to schedule a free case evaluation at the Troutman Law Office.

PENALTIES FOR DRUNK DRIVING IN KENTUCKY

Because drunk driving causes so many injuries and deaths every year, DUI convictions come with harsh penalties. According to Kentucky Statute 189A.010, the legal BAC limit is not the same for every driver. For example:

  • A BAC of 0.02 is considered over the limit for drivers who are younger than 21;

  • A BAC of 0.04 is considered over the limit for commercial drivers; and

  • A BAC of 0.08 is over the limit for drivers aged 21 and older.

The penalties of a specific DUI conviction depend on several factors. One of the most important considerations is the defendant’s criminal history. For example:

  1. A first offense can come with a 30- to 120-day license suspension, up to 30 days in jail, and a fine of up to $500;

  2. A second offense can result in a 12- to 18-month suspension, up to six months in jail, and a fine of up to $500; and

  3. A third offense can come with a license suspended of 24 to 36 months, a fine of up to $1,000, and 30 days to 12 months in jail; and

  4. A fourth DUI is a class D felony that may come with a 60-month license suspension and at least 120 days in jail – with an extra 240 days if there are aggravating circumstances.

Despite the harsh penalties of driving under the influence, far too many motorists in Kentucky still choose to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. If you were injured by an impaired driver, Matt Troutman will help you pursue justice and compensation.

Mr. Troutman is a personal-injury lawyer in Louisville who will handle the legal aspects of your claim so you can focus on recovering from your injuries. Call to schedule a free case evaluation.

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