Traffic collisions have many causes, but a lot of crashes occur because of drunk driving. It is essential for drivers to stay sober behind the wheel, but some disregard traffic safety and the law by driving drunk. In addition, drivers should keep in mind that even a relatively small amount of alcohol can affect driving abilities. Tragically, drunk driving can result in a fatal collision.
It is also important for drivers to take a look at data on drunk driving accidents in order to understand how many people lose their lives in these crashes each year.
The prevalence of fatal drunk driving crashes
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration covers fatal drunk driving accidents, which claimed the lives of more than 13,300 people during 2021. In addition, the NHTSA shared research that analyzed drunk driving fatalities between 2012 and 2021. During an average year over the course of this period, roughly 10,850 people died.
The aftermath of a deadly drunk driving collision
A drunk driver can cause victims and their loved ones to face significant hardships, especially if the accident leaves someone dead. The family members of one who passes away because of an intoxicated driver could struggle with intense anger, depression and financial hardships. Sometimes, these emotions never go away, and funeral costs as well as other financial problems can make it even more difficult for families to come to terms with the loss of their loved one.
Tragically, people continue to die in drunk driving accidents far too frequently.