Drunk and drug-impaired driving remains one of the most dangerous problems on Tennessee roads. Every year, thousands of crashes occur because a driver chooses to get behind the wheel while under the influence. These accidents often lead to devastating injuries for victims, leaving them with serious consequences that can last a lifetime.
If you were hurt in a collision caused by an impaired driver, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your losses. Learn more about how to take action after an impaired driver accident here, and reach out to a Nashville car accident lawyer if you need help with a case.
Impaired Driving Laws in Tennessee
Under Tennessee Code § 55-10-401, it’s illegal for anyone to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any intoxicating substance that affects their ability to drive safely. For alcohol-related offenses, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is considered legally impaired.
However, even drivers with a lower BAC can still be charged if their driving ability is affected. Similarly, operating a vehicle under the influence of illegal drugs or certain prescription medications is also considered impaired driving under state law.
Penalties for DUI in Tennessee include fines, license suspension, mandatory jail time, and the installation of an ignition interlock device. Beyond criminal consequences, impaired drivers can also be held civilly liable for the damages they cause in a crash.
The burden of proof is also lower in a civil personal injury claim, meaning the victim can still win their case regardless of how the criminal proceedings play out.
Who Can Be Liable for an Impaired Driving Accident in Tennessee?
In most impaired driving crashes, the intoxicated driver is primarily responsible. However, liability can sometimes extend beyond that individual. Under Tennessee’s dram shop law (T.C.A. § 57-10-102), a business or social host that served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person who later caused a crash may also be held accountable.
Other potentially liable parties could include:
- Employers (through a theory of vicarious liability)
- Vehicle owners who negligently allow an impaired driver to operate their car
- Insurance companies for these persons and entities
Identifying all of the possible sources of compensation is key to ensuring a full financial recovery, making it a critical stage in the process.
Contact Woodard Injury Law for a Free Consultation After an Impaired Driving Car Accident
If you or a loved one were injured by an impaired driver in the State of Tennessee, Woodard Injury Law can help you demand justice. Our law firm has nearly 20 years of experience and maintains a 99% success rate across millions of dollars won for our clients.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Tennessee car accident lawyer. We’ll help you take the next step toward recovery and peace of mind. We also work on a contingency fee basis, which means that we only get paid for our work if we recover compensation for you.