The Lake Charles chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) held a vigil this weekend to raise awareness regarding the impact drunk driving has on individuals and families in both Louisiana and nationwide. Community action site leader Barbara Daretz lost her only grandson, Ryan, due to the actions of a drunk driver more than three years ago. He was struck by an intoxicated driver after a Louisiana State University football game in October 2007. The young man sustained a traumatic brain injury and remained in a coma until he died eight months later at the age of 24. According to Daretz, Ryan wasn't killed in an accident because his death was entirely preventable. She hopes to prevent other families from losing loved ones through awareness events like the one held in Lake Charles. Each year, the number of alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes rises during the holiday season. Because of this, MADD has designated December as National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month. According to MADD, one in three people will eventually be involved in an alcohol-related crash and someone is injured by an impaired driver every minute. Those attending holiday celebrations are encouraged to designate a driver or make other arrangements prior to heading out. Consuming alcohol can affect a driver's judgment, perception, and reaction time. An impaired driver is a hazard to not only themselves, but also everyone they encounter on the road. Drunk driving is a leading cause of fatal motor vehicle accidents. You and your loved ones are placed at risk every time someone chooses to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you or a loved one was hurt by the actions of a drunk or impaired driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Bringing a personal injury claim against the driver who hurt you may also help send a message to others that driving while intoxicated is not acceptable behavior. In Louisiana, those injured by a drunk driver may be awarded monetary damages for lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to not only punish the impaired driver but also deter others from engaging in the same behavior in the future. Our Baton Rouge car accident lawyers can help you understand your rights and navigate the legal system. Contact J. Price McNamara, a Contact J. Price McNamara ERISA Insurance Claim Attorney, today if you have been injured by a drunk or impaired driver. Our skilled and experienced car accident attorneys represent clients throughout Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, Metairie, New Orleans, Lafayette, and Mandeville. To schedule a free initial consultation, call J. Price McNamara today at (866) 248-0580 or contact us through our website.
J. Price McNamara
Attorney
Losing my own brother, then my father and sister after long, disabling illnesses just a few months apart drove a career change for me. Before that experience, I never truly understood the place you’re in. I never understood the dramatic impact that receiving (or not receiving) the disability and life insurance benefits you paid for and counted on can have on your life especially when you need to focus on family and healing. What I experienced with my own family now drives the way I view my clients and my work, and I will never forget it!
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