Godfrey, Leibsle, Blackbourn & Howarth, S.C.
Godfrey, Leibsle, Blackbourn & Howarth, S.C.

Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today

Elkhorn, WI

COVID-19 Message: We are available during business hours by phone and other forms of electronic and written communication. Read more.

Drunk driving car accident par for the course in Wisconsin

Motorists in Wisconsin may put their lives on the line whenever they take to the roads. Wisconsin is reported to be the state with the highest number of drunk drivers. Chances of being involved in an accident caused by a drunk driver is high in a state where some 2,800 drivers have been charged with drunk driving seven times or more.

While many residents believe drinking is part of the Wisconsin culture, the victims of drunk driving accidents are likely less thrilled with state laws that are regarded by many as too lenient. Authorities say about one in three of all the drivers who are pulled over for impaired driving have records of previous OWI arrests. In Wisconsin a first impaired driving charge is only a traffic offense.

When a driver recently appeared in court for his ninth drunk driving charge, an assistant district attorney of the county noted this was not at all unusual. In fact, he said repeat OWI arrests are on the increase. While some believe stricter laws may help, others think the only solution is to lock up drunk drivers who cause fatal accidents.

Any injured victim of a car accident that was caused by a drunk driver in Wisconsin may pursue a claim for financial relief to cover medical expenses and other damages. Establishing negligence might be a challenge, but the process can be simplified with the help of an experienced personal injury attorney. Once liability is formally established, the court may adjudicate documented claims for monetary damages.

Source: wxow.com, “Still Behind the Wheel”, Nov. 21, 2017

RSS Feed

FindLaw Network