Drunk driving is a big problem this time of year

The holiday season is in full swing and with that comes an increase in the number of people who get behind the wheel while intoxicated. Police do not take this issue lightly; neither does the state. Any Illinois resident or visitor to the area who is injured in a drunk driving-related incident or who loses a loved one in such an accident may be entitled to seek compensation for their losses through legal means.

How big of an issue is the drunk driving problem in the state of Illinois? According to a recently released article, it is bad enough that ridesharing companies have granted at least one county $20,000 in credits to hopefully reduce the number of people who choose to drink and drive this holiday season. The code to access these credits is expected to be shared on various social networking pages and can be claimed up until New Years Day. This deal is available to those who want to use ridesharing services around Sangamon County.

According to a spokeswoman for the Illinois Department of Transportation, drunk driving claims roughly 300 lives per year in the state. This is far fewer than it used to be, but the simple truth is, one life lost at the hands of a drunk driver is one life too many. Drunk driving-related accidents are 100% preventable. It is all about choice.

Despite actions taken by area police, the state and rideshare companies, there are those who, over the next several weeks, will be negatively affected by individuals who operate vehicles while intoxicated. As drunk driving is considered an act of negligence, the driver may be held responsible for any of his or her victim’s losses. Those interested in seeking compensation following a drunk driving-related collision may, with the assistance of counsel, file personal injury or any other applicable claims in an Illinois civil court.