Imagine driving along a quiet road, minding your own business, when suddenly, a speeding car veers into your lane out of nowhere, causing a catastrophic collision. It’s a terrifying scenario that drivers in Sacramento, California, have experienced firsthand.
Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is a grave offense that poses a serious threat to public safety. This puts not just the motorist at risk but also the pedestrians around. Unfortunately, Sacramento has witnessed its fair share of DUI incidents, resulting in devastating injuries, loss of life, and extensive property damage.
This article delves into the Sacramento DUI crash statistics and numbers from 2021 to 2022 to shed light on the magnitude of the issue in the community.
Sacramento DUI by the Numbers
Here’s an examination of the DUI numbers in Sacramento to paint a vivid picture of the ongoing crisis.
1. DUI-related crashes
Source: Transportation Injury Mapping System
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported 1,002 DUI-related crashes in Sacramento in 2021. That number decreased in 2022 with 889 DUI-related accidents, totaling 1,891 for the two years.
These statistics reveal the alarming frequency of DUI-related crashes in the county, even after all the efforts by the CHP. Despite a slight decrease from 2021 to 2022, the issue remains a concern.
2. Percentage of DUI crashes against the total
Source: Transportation Injury Mapping System
DUI crashes made up nearly 12% of all the accidents in Sacramento in 2021 and 2022.
This figure shows the significant presence of driving under the influence as a contributing factor in accidents. It highlights the substantial impact impaired driving has on the overall safety and well-being of individuals on Sacramento’s roads.
There’s an urgent need for preventative measures, public awareness campaigns, and effective enforcement strategies to combat DUI-related incidents. All 1,891 cases were preventable had the drivers chosen a safer option.
3. Personal injury from DUI-related crashes
Source: Transport Injury Mapping System
Most of the DUI-related crashes in Sacramento for 2021 and 2022 resulted in some visible injury, with 286 cases of severe injuries. Meanwhile, there were 89 cases of fatalities.
These numbers highlight the grave consequences of driving under the influence, illustrating the potential for devastating injuries and loss of life for drivers and innocent victims. Those who survive must deal with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and even financial burdens like hospital fees, lost income, and legal costs.
Understanding the extent of the problem can help victims and their legal representatives advocate for justice and seek fair compensation for everything they’ve endured.
4. Time and day of crashes
Source: Transportation Injury Mapping System
Most DUI-related crashes in 2021 and 2022 occurred from late evening to early morning of a weekend, from Friday to Sunday.
This observation aligns with the common understanding that drinking-age adults tend to have more leisure time during weekends, leading to increased social activities that involve alcohol and drug consumption.
There’s a heightened risk during weekend nights, and the statistic emphasizes the importance of staying vigilant and taking necessary precautions to mitigate the chances of encountering and getting hit by impaired drivers.
5. Safety equipment performance for DUI-related crashes
Source: Transportation Injury Mapping System
Of the 2,589 DUI-involved victims in Sacramento, 982, or 38%, were cases where an airbag did not deploy.
Non-deployment of airbags during accidents is a concerning issue. This failure of the car’s safety systems can have severe consequences, increasing the likelihood of severe injuries and fatalities for individuals.
Your car’s airbag is like insurance—you hope you never need to use it, but you’ll be grateful it’s there when you do. Perform regular maintenance on your car’s safety features to ensure you’re protected should you ever be involved in a DUI-related accident.
6. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic
The pandemic and the lockdowns in 2020 significantly decreased the Sacramento crash numbers, dropping by 20% from 2019; however, DUI-related crashes only lowered by 5%. In 2021, as restrictions eased and people returned to the roads, there was a surge in DUI crashes.
The numbers denote many individuals still engaged in dangerous driving behavior despite the pandemic. The resulting surge after the lockdowns emphasizes the need for continued awareness and enforcement of DUI laws to ensure public safety.
Putting the Brakes on DUI
The statistics surrounding DUI crashes in Sacramento are a stark reminder of the serious and pervasive nature of the issue. Residents should continue to raise awareness, push for stricter laws, and work together to make safer roads for the county.
If you’ve been involved in a DUI crash accident and need a personal injury attorney to guide you, contact us at RMD Law for a free consultation. Our team of experienced lawyers is ready for the tireless representation you deserve.
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