Impaired driving is a big problem in Canada, including in Ontario. Drivers who are impaired lack the ability to react to obstacles and situations that occur while they are driving. That delayed or absent reaction can lead to horrible accidents.
A recent accident involving a pedestrian and an impaired driver highlights the danger of drivers who drive after drinking. The accident occurred on the Western University campus when a 24-year-old man with a blood alcohol concentration of more than 80 milligrams slammed into a pedestrian who was on the sidewalk near her residence hall. The man’s vehicle jumped the curb before hitting her. Her body was thrown over 10 meters. Bystanders came to the aid of the woman until the paramedics arrived to take care of her.
The victim was taken to the hospital after the accident Wednesday. She succumbed to her injuries Friday while still in the hospital. She was only 18 years old and a first-year student at the university.
This victim’s accident is a reminder that all drivers must be vigilant about pedestrians who are in the area. The situation will almost always be tragic if a car slams into a pedestrian, especially if the driver is driving fast enough to jump a curb.
People who drive while they are impaired can face a host of criminal penalties and provincial administrative penalties. The victims of their actions might also opt to seek compensation for the injuries they suffered. If the victim died in the accident, the family members who are left behind might opt to take legal action.
Source: Ontario Ministry of Transportation, “Impaired Driving,” accessed Oct. 14, 2015
