Drunk Driving vs. Distracted Driving

In today’s modern world, it’s common to hear about the dangers of drunk driving and distracted driving. Fatal crashes and life-changing injuries are the results of such negligent behavior; there’s little that can hope to compare to each statistically when it comes to the sheer number of accidents caused. 

However, each has its differences: being distracted doesn’t mean that you were drunk. There are multiple statistics that need to be thought of when deciding which is worse. 

Drunk Driving Statistics

Drunk driving accidents are some of the most common causes of significant injury. These stats and incidents include:


21% of all drunk driving accidents happen between 26 and 29 years old

Accidents caused by drinking and driving are most common between midnight and 3:00 a.m. and weekdays and between a 12-hour window from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. over the weekend

  • 42% of all accidents resulting in fatalities involve just one vehicle operator being drunk

  • Drinking and driving deaths amount to 10,300 annually, with injuries exceeding 290,000 cases alongside them

  • Men are more likely to get into accidents as a result of alcohol consumption 

Distracted Driving Statistics 

Similar to drunk driving statistics, distracted driving accidents are cataloged in national databases. Frequently, these incidents include:

  • Ages 16 thru 24-year-olds are the most likely to get into a distracted driving accident

  • Women are more likely to get into distracted driving accidents

  • Friday is the most common day to see distracted driving accidents

  • 57% of all crashes show 6 seconds of distraction occur before impact 

  • Distracted driving makes for 3,477 deaths each year and 391,000 injuries alongside them

  • Phone use such as texting is the most common cause of distracted driving 

Regardless of the stats for each, both drinking and driving are considered very dangerous. As such, they are treated with a high level of civil and criminal liability when someone suffers an accident or dies as a result. 

At Denuna Law, it’s our desire to help our clients obtain the justice that they deserve. If you or a loved one have been impacted as a result of drunk driving or distracted driving, reach out to our understanding staff today to learn more about your legal rights.

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