In a new law, drunk drivers in Tennessee will be forced to pay child support for the children of any parents they kill in a drunk driving accident. The law is the first of its kind, but legislatures across the country are considering similar measures. It is meant to help discourage intoxicated drivers from getting behind the wheel, and to support those who must care for the children of drunk driving victims.

What is This Law?

The new law, known as Ethan’s, Hailey’s and Bentley’s Law, is an anti-drunk driving measure targeted at those who kill the parents of minor children. In effect, anyone who is convicted of vehicular homicide or aggravated vehicular homicide in the state of Tennessee can be forced to pay child support for any children of the people they killed, until they are 18 years old. This is in addition to any other potential criminal consequences of drunk driving, including incarceration and the suspension or revocation of their license to drive.

What is the Purpose Behind This Law?

The law, which is named after the children of several people killed in drunk driving accidents, has two primary purposes. The first is that it helps to pay the cost of raising children who have been orphaned due to a drunk driving accident, helping to ensure their care. The second is that it acts as a means of discouraging people from driving under the influence, increasing the potential legal penalties that come from drunk driving.

Why Was the Law Passed Now?

While drunk driving has been a problem for decades, the rate of self-reported DUI has gone up by as much as 24% in the past two years. This has led to a higher risk of drunk driving accidents, as well as an increase in automobile fatalities. The law is meant to help counter that trend, reminding people to drink responsibly and only get behind the wheel if they are sober.

What Should You Do if You Have Been in a Drunk Driving Accident?

If you have been involved in an accident where the other driver was intoxicated, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention. After that, however, you should contact a lawyer with experience handling auto accident cases. They can consult with you on your situation, and help you to explore potential legal options that may be available to you. The sooner you call, the sooner they can get to work on your case.

If you have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you should contact the Tennessee personal injury lawyers at the Keith Williams Law Group. With convenient offices located in Nashville and Lebanon, our lawyers will work with you to create a litigation strategy that protects your legal rights and serves your personal needs. For more information or a free consultation, please contact us at 615-444-2900 or visit our contact page.