On their own, speeding in excess of posted limits and driving under the influence are each deadly driving behaviors. Speeding killed 11,258 people in 2020, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a contributing factor in nearly 30 percent of all traffic fatalities. Alcohol impairment contributed to 11,654 deaths in 2020, also approximately 30 percent of all traffic crash deaths.
According to a recent article, a 32-year-old woman was struck head-on while driving at around 7:30 a.m. The woman died from her injuries despite attempts to save her life. Meanwhile, the other driver, a 32-year-old man, was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Police say the investigation is ongoing, but they believe speed and alcohol were factors in the crash. Friends of the victim and strangers alike are mourning her passing, with the former setting up crowdfunding to help the woman’s daughters and family and the latter planting a lilac bush at the scene of the crash in her memory.
Driving Safely Around Fast and Aggressive Drivers
The NHTSA lists “disregard for others and for the law” as one of four factors involved in aggressive driving and speeding, which also include traffic, running late, and anonymity. Drivers who drink and get behind the wheel are certainly exhibiting a disregard for others before speeding even begins to enter the equation—even a blood alcohol concentration of only .02 percent contributes to loss of judgment, the decline in visual functions, and decline in the ability to multitask. If you see someone speeding, driving aggressively, or driving erratically and fear you may be dealing with a drunk or aggressive driver, the NHTSA cautions that there are steps you can take to help protect yourself and your passengers.
If someone is driving aggressively and attempting to pass you, slow down, move over, and allow them to pass. Similarly, giving erratic and speeding drivers extra space can protect you and your vehicle in the event they lose control, which they are more likely to do. Adjusting your driving and getting out of the way or pulling off may lose you a few minutes on your route but could be lifesaving when dealing with a drunk or aggressive driver. Finally, call the police if a driver is following or harassing you.
Unfortunately, on many roadways, these measures can’t protect safe drivers from being struck head-on by those behaving recklessly. If you are a victim of these drivers’ outrageous behavior, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact a Maine personal injury attorney immediately to discuss your options.
Are You a Victim of a Maine Drunk Driver?
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a Maine drunk driving accident, call an experienced personal injury and wrongful death attorney today. The attorneys at Peter Thompson & Associates have offices in Portland, Bangor, and Falmouth and can meet statewide. The attorneys at Peter Thompson & Associates have a wealth of experience in handling car accident cases and can ensure you are adequately compensated for your injuries and harm. Contact our office at 1-800-804-2004 to schedule a free initial consultation with an attorney on our team.