The state of Florida has laws to protect those victims injured due to drunk driving. While under the influence of alcohol, any operation of a vehicle is considered committing the offense of driving while impaired. An act or consumption of alcohol while operating a vehicle is a crime. The ability to control a vehicle due to errors of judgement are often the results of injuries and death in car accidents.
Intoxication and Impairment are terms used interchangeably when referring to operating a vehicle. These terms are often mixed up in discussion due to the language being implied. However, there is a distinct difference between the two. In the case of driving under the influence(DUI), Intoxication is defined as the condition of having physical or mental control markedly diminished by the effects of alcohol or drug. Whereas, Driving while impaired (DWI), Impaired is defined as unable to function normally or safely (as when operating a motor vehicle) because of intoxication by alcohol or drugs.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 28% Percentage of motor vehicle traffic fatalities are caused by alcohol-impaired driving in the United States in 2016. An increase in one’s alcohol blood level greater than 80 mg/dL or 0.08 is considered intoxication. Due to the levels of context being higher than normal, an intoxicated person is incapable of their actions. The effects may alter their mood, speech, physical health, and tolerance. For example, the person may be a danger to themselves or others, unable to care for themselves, or cause a disturbance to others around. Moreover, an intoxicated individual should certainly not be behind the wheel of any vehicle, truck, or heavy machinery.
You have rights as the victim of a drunk driving accident. Attorney Kweku Darfoor can vigorously represent you and your family by holding the at-fault driver plus any other responsible parties liable for your damages. At Darfoor Law Firm, our drunk driving accident attorney will evaluate your circumstances in order to get you the just compensation you deserve. Give us a call at 1-833-DARFOOR for a free consultation to speak with attorney Kweku Darfoor.