Now that summer has hit Florida, more drivers may be on the roads. Families will be shuttling back and forth between summer camps, jobs, and summer attractions and more high-school-aged motorists will be on the roads rather than in the classrooms. This, combined with the consumption of alcohol during summertime parties and events can create a potentially deadly combination.
Although programs to raise awareness about DUI have been in existence for years, thousands of Americans each year continue to die from DUI-related car accidents and tens of thousands of Americans of all ages continue to suffer injuries caused by these accidents. Serious brain injuries, burn injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other injuries result from car crashes each year. Some of these injuries require months or even years of recovery. Some of these cause permanent disability.
There is some good news. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over the past two decades, fatal crash accidents involving DUI and drivers between 18 and 20 years of age have decreased by 60%. In the past few years, though, the CDC reports that the reducing accident rate has slowed. To lower the rate even more, more steps will have to be taken.
The CDC also recently reported that when sobriety checkpoints are used, less DUI-related automobile accidents occur. Research has shown that these checkpoints consistently reduce car accidents by to 10%. Interestingly, the study found that the checkpoints were effective whether they were implemented over time or used in short-term bursts.
Another CDC report suggests that DUI legislation, enforcement, and education can reduce car accidents caused by alcohol. The study found that states where MADD has assigned low grades for DUI prevention activities were 60% more likely to have DUI-related accidents that states with high grades from MADD.
If you or a loved one have been injured as a result of a driver driving under the influence, hire an experienced Florida attorney. Studies have shown that DUI drivers can be repeat offenders, so by taking a stance you may be able to prevent others from being injured. Also, you may be entitled to money under the law to help you pay medical costs and other expenses caused by the car accident. If you need a qualified, experienced Florida lawyer, call 1- 800-535-2962 (1 800 5 FLAXMAN) for a free, no-obligation consultation.