The holidays are a joyful time filled with parties and other fun events. However, this is also the time of year when people are more likely to imbibe and get on the road. Drunk driving during the holidays in Florida endangers everyone on the road and can create lifelong impacts on those involved in these types of car accidents. If you have been injured in a car accident with a drunk driver, consider contacting an Orlando car accident lawyer.
Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis has worked with far too many victims of drunk driving accidents during a time of the year meant to be focused on family and friends, fun, and holiday cheer. Understanding some of the more sobering facts about drunk driving during the holidays in Florida remind those that opt to enjoy a few drinks during the festivities to make the best decisions.
Sobering Florida Drunk Driving Facts
The holidays are meant to be a happy time of year, and yet, drunk drivers ruin it for hundreds of Floridians annually when they get behind the wheel. Considering a few sobering truths about drunk drivers in the Sunshine State may help keep you safe this holiday season.
Hundreds Are Killed by Drunk Driving in Florida Annually
In 2018, more than 800 people were killed in a Florida drunk driving accident. This number does not include those injured at the hands of an impaired driver. Injuries sustained in drunk driving accidents are sometimes life-altering and permanent, resulting in sky-high medical bills and drastic lifestyle alterations.
More Florida Adults Report Drinking and Driving
The CDC notes that the national average of adults that report driving after over-imbibing is 1.7% nationally. However, the rate is slightly higher in Florida at 2%. This means that more Florida adults get behind the wheel even after knowing they have had too much to drink.
Drunk Driving Dangers Increase on Holiday Weekends
When Christmas and New Year’s fall on weekend days, drunk driving accidents tend to increase, since there is more leeway for festivities without work considerations for many. It is especially bad on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, a period in which drunk driving incidents increase 129%, making it one of the most dangerous holidays for drunk driving.
Florida Drunk Driving Laws
In Florida, it is against the law to drive if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher if you are over 21. If you are under 21, you can be charged with a DUI if your BAC is 0.02% or higher. For those under 21, this is equivalent to just one drink in some instances, in addition to the fact that it is unlawful to consume alcohol under age 21 in the first place.
Review Your Case with a Skilled Orlando Car Accident Lawyer
Drunk driving certainly increases during the holiday, which means your chances of being harmed by one of these careless drivers does as well. If you’ve been injured in a drunk driving accident, the responsible party should be held accountable for their actions. Trust the compassionate and experienced attorneys at Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis to advocate on your behalf. You may be due compensation for any injuries you have suffered, including the emotional and mental suffering of being put in such a stressful situation.
Schedule a free consultation with a team member today by calling (407) 843-7060 or visit us online to learn more.