Drunk Driving

Devastating Consequences

South Carolina, like many other states, unfortunately experiences its fair share of drunk driving accidents each year.

These tragic incidents can lead to devastating consequences, leaving victims with catastrophic injuries with a long-lasting impact on their lives. As a personal injury attorney, Brendan Green understands the severity of these accidents and the legal implications they carry, including dram shop liability for establishments that over-serve individuals who later choose to drive under the influence. Below are types of catastrophic injuries associated with drunk driving accidents and the pertinent DUI laws in South Carolina.
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Catastrophic Injuries
Passengers in a Car
Dram Shop Liability
Understanding DUIs
Conclusion

Catastrophic Injuries

Drunk driving accidents can result in life-altering injuries due to the impaired judgment, delayed reaction times, and diminished coordination of intoxicated drivers. Victims of these accidents often suffer from a range of catastrophic injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord injuries, severe fractures, internal organ damage, paralysis and even death. Injuries can require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care, all of which lead to exorbitant medical expenses and substantial pain and suffering.

Passengers

Passengers who find themselves in a vehicle driven by an intoxicated driver can also suffer catastrophic injuries in the event of a drunk driving accident. They are at the mercy of the drunk driver's impaired abilities, making them vulnerable to serious harm in a collision. From broken bones to head injuries and even fatalities, passengers in a car with a drunk driver are at great risk and may also be entitled to seek compensation for their injuries.

Dram Shop Liability

South Carolina, like many other states, has laws in place to hold establishments accountable for over-serving alcohol to individuals who subsequently cause harm to others by driving under the influence. This is known as "dram shop liability." According to South Carolina law, if a bar, restaurant, or any other establishment serves alcohol to a person who is already visibly intoxicated, and that person then causes a drunk driving accident, the establishment may be held legally responsible for the damages caused.

To establish dram shop liability, it is essential to demonstrate the establishment continued to serve alcohol to the individual when they were visibly intoxicated, and that this over-service directly led to the drunk driving accident and subsequent injuries. As a personal injury attorney, I am well-versed in navigating the complexities of dram shop liability cases and advocating for the rights of victims who have suffered due to the negligence of not only the intoxicated driver but also the establishment that contributed to the situation.

Understanding DUIs

In South Carolina, driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense that carries significant penalties. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for non-commercial drivers over the age of 21 is 0.08%. For commercial drivers, the limit is lower at 0.04%. Additionally, for drivers under the age of 21, a BAC of 0.02% or higher is considered illegal. These strict limits aim to deter drivers from getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol.

Penalties for DUI offenses in South Carolina vary depending on factors such as the driver's BAC, prior DUI convictions, and the presence of aggravating circumstances like causing an accident resulting in injuries. Penalties may include fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, community service, and even time in prison.

Conclusion

Drunk driving accidents in South Carolina, as everywhere, can have devastating consequences, resulting in catastrophic injuries for victims and passengers involved. As a personal injury attorney, Brendan Green and his team understand the hardships victims face and the importance of seeking justice and fair compensation for their losses. In cases where establishments contribute to these accidents by over-serving alcohol, dram shop liability laws hold them accountable for their actions.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a drunk driving accident, it is crucial to seek legal representation promptly. Brendan Green is here to help you navigate the legal complexities, fight for your rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Together, we can work towards preventing future drunk driving accidents and ensuring a safer community for all.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

If you have been injured and need help, we are here for you. We understand every case is unique, and we will work with you one-on-one to understand your situation, answer your questions, and explain how we can address your specific circumstances. Our goal is to get the compensation you deserve, so you can move forward with your life. 
Schedule Today

Schedule Your Free Consultation

If you have been injured and need help, we are here for you. We understand every case is unique, and we will work with you one-on-one to understand your situation, answer your questions, and explain how we can address your specific circumstances. Our goal is to get the compensation you deserve, so you can move forward with your life. 
Schedule Today