Motor vehicle crashes that cause injuries or fatalities are taken very seriously in New York State. Unfortunately, some of these tragic accidents are caused by individuals who choose to get behind the wheel of a car after they have consumed too many alcoholic beverages. Drunk driving is one of the leading causes of fatal car accidents in the United States. In an effort to take further action against drunk drivers, New York State has signed a law that requires drivers to be tested for intoxication when they are involved in a serious accident. A serious accident is one that results in the injury or death of one or more other parties.

When law enforcement reports to the scene of a serious accident, the driver who caused the accident will be required to submit to a blood, breath, or urine test that determines whether their blood alcohol content is at or over the legal limit of 0.08 percent. Previously, law enforcement needed probable cause to request that the driver submits to a breath test. However, beginning in mid-January, probable cause will not be necessary. In addition, if the driver refuses to submit to a sobriety test, their license will be suspended, effective immediately. If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, contact our firm today.

The Law Offices of George Poulos is an experienced Workers’ Compensation, personal injury, and Social Security Disability law firm with offices in Queens and the Bronx. If you require strong legal representation, contact our firm today to schedule a free consultation.