As a car accident attorney who has represented people affected by drunk driving, I know just how devastating these cases can be for families.
Wilmington, NC (PRWEB) March 15, 2015
An NBC News report reveals North Carolina drivers charged with DUI can expect to see their insurance rates jump by 337 percent, a finding that North Carolina personal injury lawyer Richard Flexner said could make people think twice about getting behind the wheel while impaired.
Flexner commented on a Feb. 19 report in NBC News titled “Bad Driving Will Cost You More in Some States.”
“As a car accident attorney who has represented people affected by drunk driving, I know just how devastating these cases can be for families,” said the experienced attorney at the Richard Flexner Law Offices. “An injury of fatality related to a drunk driving accident can result in significant losses for victims and families, physically, emotionally and financially. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the average alcohol-related fatality in the United States costs $3.5 million. That breaks down to $1.1 million in monetary costs and $2.4 million in quality of life losses. A drunk driver may have to pay a higher insurance rate, but it’s a pittance compared to the costs facing victims and their families.”
North Carolina drivers who are hit with a DUI violation can expect to see rates go up by an average of 337 percent, according to the NBC news report, which is nearly four times the national average of 92 percent. It’s not only DUI violations that will cause insurance rates to jump. NBC News reports that U.S. drivers who receive a reckless driving violation on average will be hit with an 83 percent increase in their insurance rates. Speeding more than 30 mph over the limit will cause rates to jump by 29 percent on average.
Flexner said the possible hike in insurance rates is another reason why drivers should always observe the rules of the road and avoid dangerous behavior such as drinking and driving or driving while distracted.
“Insurance companies know that careless or reckless driving behavior increases the chance of a crash, which means these companies will have to pay victims for the losses related to the accident,” Flexner said. “Unfortunately for accident victims, insurance companies typically will try to keep these payments to a minimum. That’s why it’s important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney after an accident. A lawyer can help victims fight for the compensation they need after a car wreck. An attorney can help victims hold the negligent individual accountable and send a message that careless or reckless behavior won’t be tolerated.”
About Richard Flexner Law Offices
For over 35 years, attorney Richard Flexner has fought diligently to protect the rights of personal injury victims and families who have lost loved ones in Wilmington and across North Carolina. In addition to handling cases involving fatigued truck drivers, car accidents and other matters involving personal injury and wrongful death, Flexner represents North Carolinians who need assistance with workers’ compensation claims. Flexner serves New Hanover County, Brunswick County, Pender County and all of North Carolina. He is a member of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice.
If you were injured, or a loved one was injured or killed in an accident, call 800-FLEXNER (800-353-9637) today for a free case consultation.
Richard Flexner Law Offices
3805 Oleander Dr
Wilmington, NC 28403
http://www.getflexner.com