According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, Wisconsin has the highest rate of drunken driving in the United States. In 2012, 223 people died and 3, 000 people were injured in alcohol-related crashes. In addition to a potential Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) charge on a driver's record, driving after consuming alcohol can result in serious injuries to unsuspecting drivers on the road. Thus, Wisconsin residents should take several precautions to avoid drunk driving accidents and help keep Wisconsin roads safe.
Drunk Driving Laws in Wisconsin
Being charged with an OWI may not only result in the loss of a driver's license and expensive monetary fines but can carry consequences even more severe if a victim is injured. In addition, if an intoxicated driver operates a vehicle with a passenger who is under the age of 16 years old, penalties can result in even larger fines and increased jail time. Furthermore, if a victim dies due to the drunk driving accident, the driver of the vehicle may face criminal charges, such as negligent homicide.
There are several laws in place in Wisconsin to combat drunk driving. However drunk driving still occurs more often than it should. The best way to ensure that Wisconsin motorists remain safe on the road is to refrain from drinking and driving.
Avoiding Drinking and Driving
It is very common for Wisconsin residents to enjoy several libations with friends, whether it is to celebrate a Packers win or just to socialize. However, it is very important to remember that all it takes is one time behind the wheel while intoxicated to change someone's life forever. The following tips can help you or a loved one make the right decision and avoid driving home after consuming alcohol:
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Designate a sober driver before you start drinking: It is important to remember that a sober driver is not a person who has consumed the least amount of drinks, but rather a person who has been designed to refrain from consuming alcohol so that they can drive home later;
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Call a Taxi: If you are unsure whether you are okay to drive, proceed on the side of caution and call a taxi. There is no reason to be embarrassed about being responsible and taking additional steps to ensure that you get home safely;
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Refrain from Buzzed Driving: Even if you may not feel drunk and just feel buzzed, you are probably still over the legal drinking limit of 0.08 percent and should not be operating a vehicle; and
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Report Drunk Drivers: If you notice suspicious activity on the road while driving, report it to the police or call 911. You could save someone's life.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a Wisconsin drunk driving accident, please seek medical attention and then contact a Green Bay personal injury attorney at [[title]] immediately. With offices also located in Appleton, Green Bay, and Oshkosh, our experienced attorneys can help you with your case and make sure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.