Buzzed Isn’t Safe: The Legal and Financial Fallout of Mild Impairment in Vegas Accidents
Las Vegas is known for its vibrant nightlife, bottomless drinks, and 24-hour entertainment. But what starts as “just one drink” can turn into a life-altering event when someone decides to get behind the wheel—even when they believe they’re only “buzzed.” In Nevada, and particularly in high-traffic areas like Las Vegas, even mild impairment can lead to devastating car accidents and serious legal consequences. Our Las Vegas Personal Injury Attorneys at Mainor Ellis are here to help.
What Does “Buzzed” Really Mean?
“Buzzed driving” typically refers to operating a vehicle after consuming a small amount of alcohol—enough to feel relaxed or slightly impaired, but not “drunk” by legal standards. While Nevada law sets the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit at 0.08% for most drivers, studies have shown that impairment begins well before that threshold. Coordination, reaction time, and judgment can all be compromised at lower BAC levels, increasing the likelihood of a crash.
Legal Implications of Driving While Buzzed
Even if a driver is under the 0.08% limit, they can still be cited or arrested if law enforcement believes their ability to drive is impaired. Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS 484C.110) allows for DUI charges when a driver is “under the influence to a degree which renders the person incapable of safely driving.” That means buzzed drivers are not in the clear—and neither are their wallets.
If a buzzed driver causes an accident, they may be subject to:
- DUI charges (even if under 0.08% BAC)
- Civil liability for injuries or property damage
- Increased insurance premiums
- Punitive damages in a personal injury lawsuit
Financial Fallout of a Mildly Impaired Crash
A buzzed driver who causes an accident can be held financially responsible for:
- Medical bills of injured victims
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Court costs and attorney fees
In serious cases involving injury or death, the court may also award punitive damages. These are designed to punish reckless behavior and deter others from making similar choices. Insurance companies may attempt to deny coverage for impaired driving, which could leave the driver personally liable for massive out-of-pocket costs.
What Can Victims Do?
If you’ve been injured by a buzzed driver in Las Vegas, you have legal options. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you:
- Investigate the crash and gather evidence of impairment
- Determine liability, even if the driver wasn’t above the legal BAC limit
- File a claim for full compensation, including non-economic damages
- Navigate negotiations with insurance companies
Your injuries matter—even if the other driver claims “it was just a beer.”
Don’t Let “Buzzed” Become Tragic
Las Vegas is a city built on good times, but buzzed driving turns fun into tragedy. Whether you’re a victim seeking justice or someone who made a poor decision after a drink, the fallout can last a lifetime. At Mainor Ellis, we’re committed to holding impaired drivers accountable and helping victims rebuild their lives.
If you’ve been involved in an accident with a buzzed or impaired driver, contact our Las Vegas office for a free consultation. We’re here to fight for the justice—and compensation—you deserve.
Source:
leg.state.nv.us/nrs/nrs-484c.html
