There were 746 fatalities from crashes on Florida roads involving impaired drivers in 2020, a decrease of more than 33% from 2019, according to the latest information from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). Though the number of crashes involving alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both, decreased last year, it is important that we still work to combat impaired driving to keep our families safe.
FLHSMV cites the pandemic as the main reason for the decline in overall impaired-driving crashes, fatalities, and injuries in 2020. The total number of crashes decreased by more than 16%, impaired-driving fatalities from crashes decreased by more than 33%, and impaired-driving injuries from crashes decreased by more than 26%.
March is a popular time for out-of-state visitors to travel to Florida to celebrate spring break and road traffic tends to increase. Throughout the month, FLHSMV, the Florida Highway Patrol, and other state agencies and safety organizations are sharing the “Never Drive Impaired” campaign to remind motorists that there is never an excuse for driving while under the influence.
Make Safety a Priority: Prevent Impaired Driving
We echo the message that this is not a time to let down your guard while driving this season and we would like to see crash statistics continue to decline. Remember that operating a vehicle while under the influence is illegal and puts everyone in our community in danger.
We can all help play a part in preventing driving under the influence. Remember these proactive tips:
- Have a plan. Know how you will be getting home safely before you leave home. Designate a sober driver or use a ridesharing app to get to and from your destination.
- Be the designated driver. Choose to stay sober and keep everyone in your car safe.
- Make sure friends and family also have a plan. Remind loved ones that there is no excuse for driving impaired and double-check they have a safe plan before going out.
- Ask for impaired friends’ car keys. If you suspect a friend is under the influence and could risk driving, ask to hold onto their keys and find them a safe ride home.
- Report impaired driving. When you think you see an impaired driver on the road, do not hesitate in calling law enforcement. Your call could save lives.
Family First Legal Help
There is no excuse for driving under the influence. We hope you will use the tips above to help keep those close to you safe during spring break and throughout the year.
At Panter, Panter & Sampedro, we are dedicated to Florida families and the safety of our community. If the unfortunate does happen and you are injured due to the negligence of another driver, including driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, please contact our team with questions. Call us for a free consultation at (305) 783-2592.
Sources:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. (2021, March 2). Florida sees fewer impaired-driving fatalities in 2020. Retrieved from:
https://palmcoastobserver.com/article/florida-sees-fewer-impaired-driving-fatalities-in-2020
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Never Drive Impaired. Retrieved from: https://flhsmv.gov/safety-center/driving-safety/impaired-driving
