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Indiana drunk driving accident statistics

June 13, 2023

Drunk driving remains a serious problem in Indiana, and recent statistics highlight the ongoing risks for drivers and motorcyclists alike. According to the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, there were 4,166 alcohol-related crashes in Indiana in 2020, resulting in 2,166 injuries and 97 fatalities – an average of nearly 11 alcohol-related crashes per day.

Indiana Drunk Driving Statistics

Here are some updated facts that show the severity of drunk driving in Indiana:

  • In 2020, alcohol-related crashes accounted for 20.8% of all crashes in the state.

  • Males are more likely to drive under the influence, involved in 77% of alcohol-related crashes.

  • Young adults aged 21-34 accounted for 42% of these crashes.

  • Marion County reported the highest number of alcohol-related crashes, with 572 DUI incidents causing 323 injuries and 22 fatalities.

  • A driver is considered legally intoxicated in Indiana with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher. In 2020, there were 5,978 arrests for operating while intoxicated (OWI).

  • Alcohol-related crashes occur across the state, affecting both urban and rural roads, and the consequences can be life-changing.

Consequences of Drunk Driving in Indiana

The legal penalties for drunk driving can be severe:

  • First-time OWI conviction: up to 1 year in jail, a $5,000 fine, and a driver’s license suspension of up to 2 years.

  • Subsequent OWI convictions: even harsher penalties, including longer jail time, higher fines, and extended license suspensions.

  • Most importantly, drunk driving can cause serious injury or death to the driver, passengers, and others on the road.

How You Can Stay Safe

While no one can control other drivers, there are ways to reduce risk:

  • Always designate a sober driver or use rideshare services if you plan to drink.

  • Avoid driving after consuming alcohol, even in small amounts.

  • Be especially cautious on weekends and holidays, when DUI crashes are more frequent.

Why Victims Need Experienced Legal Help

At Ladendorf Fregiato & Bigler, we are proud to represent victims of drunk driving crashes across Indiana. Our team has extensive experience handling cases against drunk drivers and parties that may have overserved them. If you’ve been injured, contacting an attorney as soon as possible is critical so a proper investigation can be conducted before evidence is lost.

We help victims recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages while holding negligent drivers and establishments accountable.

Contact Us

If you or a loved one have been injured in a drunk driving accident in Indiana, call our Indianapolis office at 317-842-5800 today for a free consultation to explore your legal options and protect your rights.

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