Alcohol-related crash injuries in Wisconsin have steadily declined since 1979, but deaths due to drunk-driving accidents have remained relatively stable since 1982, according to statistics. The state saw an all-time high in drunk driving fatalities and injuries in 1979. As laws became stricter and enforcement increased, the overall numbers dropped, but they are still problematic as alcohol is still the largest cause of fatal motor vehicle accidents in the state.

In 2012, more than 5,000 alcohol-related crashes occurred, representing a rate of one person killed or injured in a drunk-driving accident every 2.8 hours. While significantly better than in 1990, 2012’s rate still meant that 37 percent of all accident fatalities in the state for the year were due to drunk driving.

The past five year statistics, from 2008 to 2013, were recently released by the Department of Transportation. They demonstrate a trend of decreases in alcohol-related crashes, injuries and fatalities. In 2013, there were 4,954 drunk-driving accidents, 2,660 alcohol-related injuries and 185 deaths caused by drunk drivers. While the numbers are an improvement, they could still be better.

When an individual is injured or killed in an accident caused by a drunk driver, they and their families may wish to be compensated for their damages, losses and grief. Meeting with a personal injury attorney who represents victims of drunk-driving accidents may help a family recover for such things as funeral expenses, medical bills, lost income, attorney’s fees and loss of companionship. An attorney might be able to help by reviewing the facts since each case is unique while also preparing the lawsuit, filing it and representing the victim’s interests in court.

Source: Wisconsin Department of Transportation, “Final year-end crash statistics”

Source: Wisconsin department of transportation, “Drunk driving crashes, fatalities and injuries“, October 01, 2014