Drunk driving crashes continue to make Florida one of the most dangerous places to drive. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reported that in 2022, there were 5,746 drunk driving crashes in Florida, nearly 10% of which occurred in March. Alcohol was a factor in nearly 500 crashes in March 2022 alone, resulting in scores of deaths and serious injuries.
These accidents are entirely preventable, making the numbers even more tragic. Young individuals are particularly vulnerable, with those who begin drinking before the age of 14 being five times more likely to be injured while under the influence of alcohol.
If you’ve been injured in a Florida drunk driving crash, call 407-846-2240 for a free consultation with an Orlando car accident attorney at the Martinez Manglardi personal injury law firm.
Effects of Drunk Driving Crashes in Florida
Alcohol affects individuals differently, depending on various factors such as size, sex, body build, and metabolism. It impairs judgment and driving abilities, posing a significant risk to both the driver and innocent victims. Contrary to popular belief, drinking coffee or taking a cold shower does not speed up the body’s alcohol-elimination process. It takes approximately four hours for the average person to recover from the effects of four standard-sized alcoholic beverages.
Alcohol interferes with judgment and coordination and slows reaction time, making it a significant contributing factor to road accidents. In Florida alone, drunk driving crashes accounted for over 1,000 fatalities in a single year. In addition to impacting the people directly involved, these avoidable tragedies also affect their families and communities.
The government is working to curb drunk driving crashes. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is urging the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to mandate the installation of new in-vehicle technologies aimed at preventing impaired driving.
Teen Drinking and Driving
Impaired driving is a significant contributor to the increased risk of serious crashes for teens. This dangerous behavior encompasses driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs (including marijuana), and even when drowsy. Impaired driving adversely affects judgment, reaction times, and awareness, which makes it dangerous for inexperienced teen drivers. In fact, statistics show that teen drivers are four times more likely to be involved in drunk driving crashes than their adult counterparts.
Seeking Legal Assistance
A victim of a drunk driving crash, you can file a car accident injury claim with your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance company. These policies cover 80% of medical bills up to $10,000 and a portion of lost wages. In cases of “serious injury,” you may also file a claim against the at-fault driver’s bodily injury liability (BIL) policy. These policies often have higher coverage limits beyond the PIP limit and can pay for medical expenses as well as pain and suffering, and other damages.
If you decide to pursue a third-party liability claim, you should gather evidence including police reports, medical records, and statements from witnesses to support your case. An experienced and aggressive personal injury attorney is essential to maximizing any potential settlement you may be entitled to.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car crash caused by a drunk driver, it is essential to seek legal assistance from experienced car accident attorneys. The Martinez Manglardi personal injury law firm has been fighting for car accident victims in Central Florida for over 35 years. Their dedicated team of attorneys understands the devastating impact of drunk driving crashes and will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Call 407-846-2240 for a free consultation with an Orlando car accident attorney at the Martinez Manglardi personal injury law firm. Convenient locations throughout Central Florida, including Orlando, Kissimmee, Apopka, Palm Bay, Ocala, and Haines City.
