Even though there are thousands of people killed every year by people who drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, it still happens on a daily basis in the United States. Even though there are now tougher regulations, it doesn’t seem to stop people from getting behind the wheel after they have been drinking or doing drugs. Now, if a driver kills someone while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, he or she can be charged with manslaughter and face many years in jail. This article will serve as an introduction to driving while intoxicated (DWI) and driving under the influence (DUI). Both terms mean basically the same thing, but the term DUI can refer to drivers under the influence of any drug and not just alcohol. You can be charged with DUI if you have any trace of any non-prescribed drug in your system at the time that you are pulled over. Any drug can impair your judgment, making it hard to make split second decisions while driving. That is why there are so many accidents every year that are caused by people who are under the influence of either drugs or alcohol.

There are a variety of punishment for people who are convicted with DUI and DWI. Every case is different because they all vary in severity. Another thing to consider is how much drugs or alcohol the person had in their system at the time of the arrest. If a driver is just barely over the legal limit and were being pulled over on a routine traffic stop, he or she might be able to get off with a fine and perhaps probation. However, if he or she caused an accident while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, he can face much harsher punishments. Often, if drunk driving results in an accident, the driver will have to spend at least some time in jail, and could even be charged with manslaughter.

If you were hit by a driver under the influence, contact a lawyer so that you can ensure to get the money that is owed to you. A good car accident lawyer will be able to make sure that you get the settlement that you deserve and that the perpetrator gets what is coming to them.

If you were struck by a driver under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you should not be held responsible for any of the costs that are associated with it. That person made the decision to endanger others, so they should have to pay accordingly. If you or someone you know has been in an accident with a drunk driver, consult a lawyer immediately. They will be able to review the case and tell you what your best course of action is.