Call Now 202-960-4596
One person is dead following a single-car crash in Frederick, MD, on December 21. According to the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, the accident occurred at the intersection of Sundays Lane and Bartgis Road in Frederick, near Route 15, around 5 a.m. Police say the man driving the vehicle drove off the road for an unknown reason before hitting two trees. The driver died at the scene.
Investigators believe that speed and alcohol may have played a part in the car accident.
Car accidents involving drunk driving and speeding represent some of the most dangerous and preventable forms of traffic incidents. When alcohol impairment combines with excessive speed, the results are particularly devastating because both factors severely compromise a driver’s ability to control their vehicle and react to road conditions.
According to the Maryland Highway Safety Office, impaired driving is a leading cause of car accident injuries and fatalities in the state. Data shows that impaired driving resulted in 2,743 injuries and 158 fatalities.
Alcohol affects drivers by slowing reaction times, impairing judgment, reducing coordination and decreasing visual acuity. These effects become more pronounced at higher speeds, where split-second decisions and precise control are essential. Research shows that drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% – the legal limit in Maryland – typically experience a 60% increase in the time needed to respond to hazards. When speeding is added to this equation, the shortened time available to react creates an extremely dangerous situation.
Speed amplifies both the likelihood and severity of crashes. The physics of vehicle collisions means that crash energy increases exponentially with speed – doubling speed quadruples the energy released in an impact. This explains why high-speed crashes are more likely to result in fatalities or severe injuries. When combined with alcohol’s effects on judgment and coordination, speeding dramatically reduces a driver’s ability to navigate curves, maintain lane position, or brake effectively.
The financial and social costs of these accidents extend far beyond the immediate crash. They include emergency response resources, long-term medical care, property damage, increased insurance rates, legal consequences, and the profound emotional impact on families and communities. Many jurisdictions have implemented strict penalties for combining speeding and drunk driving, including heavy fines, license suspension, and potential jail time.
If you were involved in a drunk driving accident in Frederick, our Frederick car accident attorneys are here to help. Contact Regan Zambri Long today to schedule a free consultation.
Important Notice: The information in this post comes from public sources. While we strive for accuracy, please get in touch with us for corrections if you notice any errors. Posts can be removed upon request.
This post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. If you or a loved one has been injured, please seek immediate medical care.
