Have you ever been driving down a highway or interstate and happen to see a car swerving from side to side while barely staying in their lane? I have seen my fair share of those types of cars – for the most part my mind automatically thinks “well, are they drunk? What are they doing?!” Normally we all try to stay away from those cars, but what if one day it’s out of our control?
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles in 2016 alone 44,643 people were cited for driving under the influence.
- 96 were cited for DUI – manslaughter
- 9,772 were cited for DUI – property damage/personal injury
- 256 were cited for DUI- serious bodily injury
- 34 were cited for DUI- property damage/ bicycle personal injury
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in the United States alone, about 29 people die on a daily basis in DUI car crashes – it comes to about one person every 50 minutes. This equals to over 10,000 people a YEAR!
Is there a difference between “Buzzed Driving” and “Drunk Driving”?
The answer is No! Buzzed Driving IS Drunk Driving!
Drunk Driving vs. “Normal” Car Crash
Accidents caused by a person under the influence of alcohol are held to a higher standard of liability than a “normal” car crash. DUI Convictions differ by the number of convictions previously held and can range anywhere from not being able to acquire a license for a few months to years and jail time. That, however, is the best outcome for those drivers.
If the person hurts someone or causes a death there are other extreme penalties. Some of the penalties that the person can face are: permanent revocation of their license, up to $10,000 in fines, or 30 years of jail time for DUI manslaughter or felony charges.
Safety Measures that you can take
- As a driver, always make sure that you and any passengers in your car are wearing a seat belt! Start teaching your kids at a young age – they are your best defense against drunk drivers!
- As a pedestrian, always make sure to be aware of your surroundings – think and check twice before crossing a street.
- As a friend or host, don’t let your friends or guests drive impaired, make sure they leave with someone who is sober and will make sure that they get home safely.
- As a consumer, if you have plans to drink, have a designated driver. If you weren’t planning on drinking but find yourself in that situation call a friend or family member to go get you – yes, even if you think that you are bothering them. Always remember that friends and family want you to stay safe.
Contact Brooks Law Group
If you or someone you know is injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver call Brooks Law Group today at 1-800-LAW-3030 for a free consultation. Attorneys at Brooks Law Group work on a contingent fee basis, meaning that we don’t get paid until you receive compensation.
