If you have been the victim of a drunk driver who walked away from the crash with only minor injuries while yours are far more serious, you’re not alone. That happens a lot – and there’s a scientific reason for it.
If an unimpaired driver is aware that they’re about to crash, even for a second, their body will naturally tense up. They will probably grab the steering wheel, hit the brakes and maybe reach across to shield a front seat passenger. Their body will instinctively brace for impact.
Deceleration injuries
When the vehicle collides with the other vehicle or maybe a guardrail, tree or light pole if they were trying to avoid the vehicle coming at them, the vehicle usually stops suddenly. Inside, the occupants’ bodies suddenly decelerate. Because the bodies were tensed up, they have less ability to absorb the energy of the crash. They suffer what are known as “deceleration injuries.”
A deceleration injury is defined as “an impact injury to a body within or upon a rapidly moving object caused by the forces exerted when the object is brought to a sudden halt.” These often affect the brain and spine. These, of course, are in addition to other injuries like cuts, broken bones and internal injuries.
What about the drunk driver?
Meanwhile, a drunk driver (or one who’s impaired by drugs) may be oblivious to the fact that they’re about to crash. That means their body won’t tense up, and they won’t suffer deceleration injuries. They could still suffer other injuries, of course.
If you’ve been injured in a crash with a drunk driver or a loved one has been killed as a result of one, it’s important to understand that while that driver will likely face criminal charges, you also have a right to hold them liable civilly. This can allow you to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other economic damages as well as non-economic damages. By getting sound legal guidance as soon as possible, you can better work to seek compensation that can help you move forward.