New Hampshire Sees Spike in Traffic Fatalities Linked to Impaired Drivers

Last month, we discussed the troubling increase in traffic fatalities during the summer months in New Hampshire. Now, a recent report highlights another alarming trend: a significant spike in traffic deaths linked to car accidents caused by impaired drivers.

New Hampshire impaired driving statistics

According to a report by the Union Leader that was published by AOL.com, three out of four traffic fatalities in the state involve impaired drivers, underscoring the severe impact of alcohol and drug use on roadway safety. For instance, in 2022, 107 out of 146 traffic fatalities in the state were linked to an alcohol- and/or drug-affected driver, according to the state Office of Highway Safety.

Between 2016 and 2022, 515 of the 854 people killed in motor vehicle collisions were victims of crashes involving impaired drivers, accounting for about 60% of all traffic fatalities. And as of June 10, 2024, 47 people had died on New Hampshire roads. Although specific figures for impaired drivers in these incidents are not yet available, the trend from previous years suggests a significant portion involves alcohol or drugs.

What's being done to address the issue?

State and local authorities are intensifying their efforts to prevent negligent drivers from causing serious and fatal crashes on New Hampshire roads.

"Distracted driving coupled with speed with any kind of alcohol or drug use creates a perfect storm for serious bodily injury or death to occur, not only to the people operating in that manner, but anyone else operating a vehicle in the vicinity," said State Police Capt. Vincent Grieco, per the Union Leader report.

Grieco emphasized the importance of enforcement in making drivers realize the consequences of their actions. "It takes that enforcement prong for them to come to the reality or the realization that their actions don't only have consequences for themselves but everyone around them," he added.

On a national scale, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 13,524 alcohol-impaired driving traffic deaths in 2022, up from 10,196 fatalities in 2019. This increase occurred despite fewer vehicles on the road during the pandemic.

"Even during the pandemic, when fewer people were on the roadways, it still increased — the ones that were on the roads were impaired," noted Bob Garguilo, regional executive director for New England for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).

Garguilo also pointed out that the message to avoid impaired driving is not resonating with the public as strongly as it did in the past. "Go out and enjoy life. Life is too short," he said. "Just have a plan on how you're going to get home safely."

According to the report, federal grants will fund additional police patrols targeting distracted, speeding, and impaired drivers on heavily traveled and high-risk roadways. However, as Garguilo from MADD pointed out, "Policemen can't be everywhere. We have to be more accountable."

How a lawyer can help if you were injured by an impaired driver

Being injured in a car accident caused by an impaired driver can be a traumatic and life-altering experience. The physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming. In such situations, having an experienced car accident attorney by your side is crucial to navigate the challenges of your case and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s how a car accident lawyer can help:

Comprehensive case evaluation

An experienced car accident lawyer will thoroughly evaluate your case to understand the circumstances surrounding the accident. This involves reviewing police reports, medical records, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage. A detailed case evaluation helps build a strong foundation for your claim.

Gathering evidence

Collecting and preserving evidence is critical in proving that the other driver was impaired and at fault for the accident. Your lawyer will work diligently to gather all necessary evidence, including blood alcohol content (BAC) reports, drug test results, and any prior records of impaired driving by the at-fault driver. In some cases, expert testimony may also be sought to support your claim.

Navigating civil and criminal proceedings

It's important to understand that civil proceedings are separate from criminal proceedings. Even if the at-fault driver is not charged with a crime, or if criminal charges are dropped, you can still pursue a civil lawsuit to seek compensation for your injuries. A car accident lawyer will help you understand your rights and options in the civil court system, ensuring that the outcome of the criminal case does not affect your ability to recover damages.

Negotiating with insurance companies

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. A skilled car accident attorney knows the strategies used by insurers and will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair and full compensation. This includes compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses.

Legal representation in court

If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court. Having a knowledgeable attorney represent you in court can significantly improve your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome. Your lawyer can present a compelling case to demonstrate the other driver’s negligence and the accident's impact on your life.

Maximizing compensation

An attorney will work to maximize the compensation you receive. This involves calculating the full extent of your damages, including future medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and any long-term impacts on your ability to work and enjoy life. By understanding the true value of your claim, your lawyer can ensure you are not shortchanged by the insurance company.

Our law firm fights for crash victims in New Hampshire

At Burns, Bryant, Cox, Rockefeller & Durkin, P.A., we understand what it takes to help victims of impaired driving accidents find their way forward. Our experienced attorneys are committed to holding negligent drivers accountable and securing the compensation our clients deserve. For instance, in one case, we secured a $2 million settlement for a client who was injured in a head-on collision. To find out how we can help with your potential legal case, contact us today for a free consultation.