According to the most recent drunk driving statistics, a drunk driving car accident is an all too common occurrence in the United States, as 29 people are killed each day. These numbers average out to one death every 50 minutes. Drunk driving accidents are a major problem in Florida, as 8,476 people were killed from 2003 to 2012 in the state of Florida, while thousands of other drivers were injured due to drunk driving.
Justice for individuals impacted by drunk driving can’t happen soon enough, as reaching out to a law firm is essential if you are the victim of a DUI or DWI accident. A drunk driving attorney can help you receive the compensation you deserve, whether you were injured or someone you love was killed due to drunk driving.
Drunk Driving Laws in Florida
The state of Florida enforces strict laws related to drunk driving accidents to keep the public safe. For example, the state often creates sobriety checkpoints to locate drivers under the influence. Typically, 15-20 checkpoints are conducted throughout the state each month. It’s not legal for anyone to drive with a blood alcohol concentration that’s .08% or greater, as a breathalyzer test is often used to determine this number.
Impact of Drunk Driving
Drunk driving often results in various negative side effects that create a dangerous situation for anyone on the road. For example, drinking alcohol can often reduce reflexes, which significantly increases the chance of an accident. Alcohol also considerably impairs vision and spatial awareness. Difficulty in concentrating and a feeling of drowsiness are other common features of drunk drivers. Consumption of alcohol also reduces coordination, which can often result in a car accident injury.
Types of DUI and DWI Accidents in Florida
A car accident dramatically increases for drivers consuming alcohol due to vision impairment, lack of alertness, and reduce reaction time. Some examples of the most common types of drunk driving accidents include head-on collisions, rear-end accidents, side-swipes, wrong-way accidents, and hitting pedestrians.
Victims of DUI Car Accidents
Victims of drunk driving can often experience years of physical and emotional pain while dealing with the financial burden of significant medical expenses or lost wages. Even minor accidents involving drunk driving can result in broken bones, sprains, cuts, whiplash, concussion, back or neck injuries, and burns. Emotional anguish is another common problem, as victims often suffer from anxiety, insomnia, depression, and mood swings. Reaching out to a drunk driving attorney is critical in helping you receive compensation for these injuries.
Statute of Limitations in Florida
Victims of drunk driving accidents have up to four years after the date of the accident to file an injury claim with a drunk driving attorney. Scheduling a consultation with a drunk driving accident lawyer is important in discussing the details of your case, as you may be entitled to compensatory or punitive damages.
Compensatory damages are the most common, as they may include existing and future medical expenses, property damage, loss of current or future wages, emotional duress, or wrongful death. On the other hand, punitive damages aren’t as common in drunk driving accidents, but you may be eligible if illegal activities or outrageous negligence are the reason for the crash. Contacting a DWI accident or a DUI accident lawyer in Florida is always a good idea to discuss which type of potential damages you may be eligible for with your claim.
Reach Out to a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Today
Drunk driving is a major problem that can lead to significant injuries or death for many innocent victims in Florida. Scheduling a free consultation with a drunk driving accident lawyer is essential if you or a loved one sustained injuries in an automobile accident due to a drunk driver. These legal professionals can help you receive the compensation you deserve. Reach out to a DUI accident lawyer today to learn more about your legal options if you are a victim of a drunk driving car accident.
