Drunk Driving Accidents in Florida

Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD) reports that 3,948 individuals have died as a result of drunk driving accidents in Florida in the past five years. These fatalities have cost the state $20 billion in economic consequences. MADD ranks Florida 24 in drunk driving incidents out of the 50 states. In its most recent statistics concerning drunk driving in Florida, 30 percent of the total traffic deaths were associated with drunk driving. The DUI fatalities were 716 with three-time offenders numbering close to 109,000 individuals and five-time offenders numbering 13,000.

Florida put into effect a law which requires ignition interlock devices for those convicted of driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .15 percent or more in 2008; this law applies to first-time offenders as well. Florida also employs a social host law which places liability on adults who furnish alcohol to those under 21. Those who kill another individual either negligently or intentionally due to drunk driving in Florida may serve jail or prison sentences ranging from merely a few days up to 15 years. A DUI manslaughter in Florida is charged as a second-degree felony with fines of up to $10,000 as well as potential incarceration.

Car Accident Attorney in Coral Gables and South Florida

Injuries and deaths from negligent drivers, such as drunk drivers, drivers who text while behind the wheel, and drivers who ignore traffic signs, signals, and laws, often lead to personal injury and wrongful death claims and lawsuits. The victims of such accidents may face long-term or even lifelong consequences of such accidents. Those responsible should be held accountable.

The personal injury law firm of H. Joshua Diamond, P.A. serves accident victims in Coral Gables and throughout the South Florida region with competent and caring legal representation. Founding attorney Diamond is personally committed to every client he takes on and has an impressive track record of success in auto accident claims. He offers a free case consultation to prospective clients who have been injured due to negligence in car accidents as well as any other type of personal injury scenario. Contact his firm to learn more about your case and to get the legal help you need.