According to CBS Minnesota, 2,502 people were arrested for drunk driving in Minnesota over the holidays. In some ways, this is good news. Law enforcement removed over 2,000 dangerous and deadly drivers from streets and highways, making roadways safer for commuters and their families. The increase in arrests came in the wake of additional DWI law enforcement in Minnesota. The crackdown spanned from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. Officers stepped up their efforts to stop drunk drivers. In Minneapolis alone, there were 59 DWI arrests over the holiday season.
The sheer number of drivers caught driving while under the influence brings attention to a serious risk facing anyone on the road. Drunk driving devastates countless lives every year. According to USAttorneys, drunk driving alone doesn’t just contribute to accidents. Drunk pedestrians are also at a higher risk of being involved in an accident. Drinking before biking, walking, or driving puts you and others in danger. If you’ve been hurt in a crash due to a drunk driver, Minnesota law provides you important rights and protections. You may be entitled to receive compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and even pain and suffering. An accident lawyer in Minneapolis can review your case and discuss your options.
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety noted that the high numbers of drunk driving arrests was troubling. In some cases, individuals were found carrying underage passengers. Drivers who are drunk are more likely to disobey road laws, making them particularly dangerous. They are more likely to swerve out of their lane onto oncoming traffic, more likely to ignore road signs or traffic lights, and they may even be at risk of driving the wrong way on highways and Interstates. Some of the individuals arrested over the holiday sweep included multiple DWI offenders.
Is the increase in enforcement leading to fewer accidents? Despite the high numbers of arrests, there were no DWI fatalities reported.
In Minnesota, the legal BAC limit is 0.08. If you’ve been in an accident and the other driver records a BAC above the legal limit, he or she may be liable to pay for your injuries, rehabilitation, property damage, and lost wages. Car accidents can result in serious, long-term injuries, lead to individuals missing time at work, and can put additional strain on families struggling to make ends meet. If you find yourself facing a long recovery after an auto accident, a personal injury lawyer in Minneapolis may be able to assist you.
The Law Office of Martin T. Montilino is a personal injury law firm in Minneapolis committed to helping accident victims and their families. With the holiday DWI crackdown over, there is a concern that DWI drivers won’t always get caught, leaving them on the road where they pose a risk to other drivers. If you are injured, you don’t need to struggle alone. Our firm is here for you and your family.