Drunk driving fatalities account for 28 percent of all traffic-related deaths in the U.S. Many drunk driving-related crashes result in devastating injuries that can disrupt the lives of those in the vehicles and their families for a lifetime.
Not always, but a person dies in a drunk driving accident in the U.S. every 50 minutes. But the good news is that these deaths have decreased by a third in the last 30 years. But there’s not only the human cost in loss of life, but drunk-driving fatalities also contribute to nearly $45 billion each year.
Drunk driving fatalities account for 28 percent of all traffic-related deaths in the U.S. Equally startling, many drunk driving-related crashes result in devastating injuries that can disrupt the lives of those in the vehicles and their families for a lifetime.
What is the Legal Blood Alcohol Count in Florida?
In Florida, you are considered impaired with a blood alcohol count (BAC) of .08 percent. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it would take about four drinks being consumed in a one-hour period for a 160-pound man to reach that BAC. A standard drink is defined as 14 grams (or .6 ounces) of pure alcohol. This is typically found in 12 ounces of beer, eight ounces of malt liquor, five ounces of wine, or a 1.5-ounce shot of 80 proof distilled liquor. However, some establishments “free pour” so the amount of alcohol in the drink can vary widely depending upon the person who serves it. To put that into perspective, with a BAC of .08 percent, muscle coordination becomes poor. People might slur their speech or suffer blurred vision. It’s harder for these impaired individuals to detect danger or practice self-control.
What Can Be Done to Prevent Repeat Offenders?
Alcohol interlocks are one way. Also called ignition interlocks, these devices require the driver to blow into a tube to determine BAC before they can start their vehicles. In most states, if the driver blows a .02 percent or higher, they can’t start their car. The National Highway Transportation Safety Association strongly recommends the use of ignition interlocks to keep repeat offenders from getting behind the wheel.
So, what can you personally do to help lessen the impact of drunk driving? The best bet is simply don’t drink and drive. Plan a safe ride home before you head to the party, choose a non-drinking friend as a designated driver, or hail a taxi or ride-hailing service. If you’re the host of a party, make sure all guests leave with a sober driver. Most importantly, always wear a seat belt. That’s your best defense against a drunk driver.
What to Do If You’ve Been Injured in a Drunk-Driving Accident
If you are in an accident and you suspect the person hit you is impaired in any way, it’s more important than ever to call 9-1-1 so the police can evaluate the current state of the offending driver. If that driver fails to perform a field sobriety test, that can be used in court against them.
If you’re involved in a drunk driving accident, it’s important to seek medical attention and the advice of proven, trial-tested personal injury attorneys like those at Fernandez & Hernandez Attorneys At Law. You can reach them for advice 24/7 by calling 813.755.9500. Hablan español.
