Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol Causes Accidents
The statistics connecting drunk driving to automobile accidents are staggering. These accidents can happen at various speeds regardless of traffic congestion and can often include multiple vehicles. The level of intoxication is not always consistent with drunk driving accidents either, as many severe accidents are caused by drivers who register below the aggravated intoxication level of .14 BAC. When you combine drunk drivers with other road dangers, many Florida motorists will become vulnerable to serious and sometimes deadly crashes.
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What is Dram Shop Liability?
Florida has implemented a social host and restaurant/bar liability for accidents caused by individuals who became intoxicated at their home or establishment. Meaning those who are injured or die in a crash caused by a drunk driver that came from their location could file suit for additional damages that occurred from the accident. These claims can be complicated and are usually strongly defended. An experienced personal injury attorney understands the intricacies of the Dram Shop Liability law so material case factors can be established and victims can receive the compensation they deserve.
Legal Alcohol Limits
DUI charges are determined by the blood-alcohol level of drivers in all situations. Drivers who register under .05 are generally not in violation of the law unless they are a commercial driver or are underage. A BAC level of .02 applies to commercial drivers, and underage drivers have a zero tolerance policy. Those registering between .05 and .08 are typically charged with wet reckless driving, with those above .08 being charged with a standard DUI. Aggravated charges can result from a .14 BAC or more, and can be felonies if part an accident or have minor children in the vehicle.
How Drinking Impairs Drivers
The manner in which alcohol impairs the body’s system has been well-documented over the years, as it causes drivers to be easily distracted and make irrational driving decisions. Not only do these risky decisions include driving too fast, but they also include the inability to respond quickly to avoid a serious car accident. The capacity for driving safely is greatly diminished with drunk drivers, as statistics clearly demonstrate. Drinking alcohol will typically result in a person losing their ability to make sound judgments as mentioned before but it can also cause a number of issues including lowered reflex times, decreased perception, poor motor functions, and an increased risk of someone falling asleep behind the wheel.
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Contact a Fort Myers Car Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver in Florida, then do not hesitate to speak to the skilled attorneys of Viles & Beckman. Our attorneys have the skillset and experience that can help ensure that your car accident case will get the best chance possible at securing the settlement that you need. Handling a claim on your own is one of the worst possible moves that you can make and has a chance of causing damage to the value of your claim or can even end up getting it denied outright by the insurance company. Take the time to speak to an expert especially in the case of Viles & Beckman since we offer free consultations to
contact Viles & Beckman, LLC today at (239) 334-3933 free case evaluation today.
About the Author of this Page: The above information was written or reviewed by one of the attorneys at Viles & Beckman LLC who have a combined experience of nearly 60 years: Marcus Viles, Michael Beckman. The information provided in this article comes from years of experience trying legal cases outside and inside courtrooms throughout Florida along with extensive research.
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