Drunk Driving Accidents

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that about 1 of every 3 traffic deaths in the United States involves a drunken driver. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 875 people were killed in Florida in accidents where at least one driver had a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.08% or above. 

 

Florida Drunk Driving History 

Alcohol plays a strong and prominent role in the history of Florida. Some point to our ancestry, others to our climate, but whatever the reason, it cannot be denied that the consumption of alcohol is involved in almost every major holiday and celebration. Unfortunately, the consumption of alcohol at many events also leads to driving under the influence. 

Florida also has more bars and taverns per person than the national average. Drinking in the majority of bars and taverns also results in driving under the influence.

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Florida Drunk Driving Accident Law 

Too often we have seen Florida lawyers handle Florida Drunk Driving Accidents as they would any other auto accident case. This unfortunately is not the best way to represent a client as drunk driving accidents are not the same as a standard car accident and should not be handled the same.

 

The Florida Supreme Court has stated that victims of Drunk Drivers in Florida can recover Punitive Damages in certain circumstances. Punitive Damages are meant to punish and deter individuals from repeating dangerous actions. A thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding a Florida Drunk Driver's conduct is absolutely critical to determine whether Punitive Damages are appropriate in a given crash.

 

The personal injury attorneys here at the Law Offices of Lewis & Williams offer a free consultation. For more information call us today at 561-444-2260.