If you thought drinking and driving was dangerous, consider this: More than a third of pedestrians killed in 2011 had blood alcohol levels above the legal limit for driving, according to government data released this week.

Thirty-five percent of those killed, or 1,547 pedestrians, had blood alcohol content of .08 or higher, the legal limit for driving, according to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Half of the fatally injured pedestrians ages 25-34 were alcohol-impaired. Of those who were in their early 20s or in their mid-30s to mid-50s, just under half were impaired. Smaller portions of older and younger pedestrians involved in fatal accidents were impaired. Less than a third of the pedestrians 55 or older and those younger than 20 had blood alcohol levels above the legal limit.

By comparison, 13 percent of drivers involved in crashes in which pedestrians were killed had blood alcohol concentrations that exceeded the legal limit. Overall, about a third of traffic fatalities in 2011 — 31 percent, or 9,878 deaths — were attributable to crashes involving drivers with BAC of .08 or higher.

The data come on the heels of an NHTSA campaign to reduce pedestrian deaths. There were 4,432 pedestrian fatalities in 2011, up 3 percent from the previous year.

Anti-drunk driving campaigns have been encouraging more people to walk home after a night of drinking. But walking after drinking, these statistics show, poses obvious danger.

Who is at Fault?

Getting hit by a car is a traumatic experience. A pedestrian injured by a negligent driver may have legal options to receive compensation for medical bills and other expenses. It’s important to obtain counsel to help determine your options.

If you have been injured in an accident, our South Carolina personal injury attorneys at the Joye Law Firm may be able to help. Call (888) 324-3100 or use our online contact form for answers to your questions about legal proceedings.

Source:

  • U.S. Department of Transportation Press Release
About the Author

Mark Joye is the Head of the Litigation Department at the Joye Law Firm. A Board-Certified Trial Advocate with nearly 30 years of litigation experience, he currently serves on the Board of Governors for the American Association for Justice and is a past president of the South Carolina Association for Justice. In a recent trial, Joye headed a trial team that secured $17 million for a family killed in a tractor-trailer accident.

Recent Blog Post
Image of a woman in a santa hat in the driver's seat of a car
National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month: How to Talk to Your Loved Ones About Driving Safe this Holiday Season

December marks National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month, a critical time for raising awareness about the dangers of impaired driving. With holiday celebrations increasing the risk of alcohol-related accidents, it’s vital to engage in open discussions with friends and…

What to Do in South Carolina: Staff Picks 11/28/23 – 12/4/23

As we usher in the holiday season, South Carolina is adorned with a myriad of festive events to spark joy and create lasting memories. Joye Law Firm, deeply rooted in the communities we serve, has handpicked some delightful happenings from…

Image of a group of friends in a car
Are Passengers or Drivers More Likely to be Injured in Crashes?

Riding in the passenger seat isn’t just about enjoying the view or controlling the playlist. When another person is behind the wheel, it can mean potential risks for you as a passenger. This is due to your positioning in the…

What to Do in South Carolina: Staff Picks 11/21/23 – 11/27/23

The holiday season is upon us, and Joye Law Firm is delighted to share handpicked events across South Carolina that promise festive fun for families and friends. From Charleston to Clinton, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this week! Charleston…

Awards & Recognition
Media
ABC
NBC
Fox
CBS News