Driving
while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a huge problem. It’s
not just an issue for the driver, who could suffer terrible injuries
or penalties as a result of this decision, but it’s also a
tremendous problem for the other drivers on the road. Anyone could
easily become a victim of a horrendous accident—suffering severe,
debilitating, and even life-altering injuries or death due to a drunk
driver.
Ignition Interlocks In addition, Florida state law now requires ignition interlocks for any first-time offender with a BAC (or Blood Alcohol Content) of 0.15 or higher. The state also expanded on this law by allowing judges to order the interlocks for any person convicted of a DUI with a BAC of 0.08 to 0.14, instead of the 10-day vehicle impoundment that was a standard punishment.
So what does this mean?
Lawand policymakers in Boca Raton and throughout the state of Florida are taking steps to diminish the fatalities and accidents that occur annually as a result of drunk driving.
How You Can Avoid Becoming Another Scary Statistic
Here are some startling drunk driving statistics that will drive you mad, and even some sensible solutions for how you can avoid becoming another scary statistic.
1. Scary Statistic: In 2014, 28.1% of traffic deaths in the state of Florida were a result of drunk driving fatalities.
Sensible Solution: Be responsible for your own decisions. You may not be able to control what others do, but you can certainly be in control of yourself. If you are going to a party where you plan to drink, make sure you have a designated driver.
2. Scary Statistic: In 2014, there were over 40,000 drunk driving arrests that resulted in over 26,000 convictions in Florida.
Sensible Solution: Those 26,000 drunk driving convictions may seem like they have absolutely nothing to do with you, but drunk driving really is a problem for all drivers on the road in Florida. So how can you help with this one? If you are at a party or bar, keep a watchful eye out for your friends and loved ones. Just because you know your limit does not mean that everyone does. Offer to be a designated driver, or take the keys aware from a friend or family member who is clearly too intoxicated to drive home.
3. Scary Statistic: Over 11,000 of the convictions for 2014 in Florida were 5 time offenders.
Sensible Solution: Florida state law already carries pretty harsh penalties for subsequent drunk driving offenses. And 5th time offenders face some of the most stringent, with fines that can be over $2,000 and up to 5 years in jail. Many people may not be aware of this, and you may be able to deter repeat offenders by being an advocate. Groups like MADD are always working to spread awareness about drunk driving and the penalties it carries in Florida. You can join an advocacy group, like MADD, or donate funds to help raise the awareness about this issue and help be a part of the solution.
4. Scary Statistic: Between 2003 and 2012, over 8,000 individuals were killed as a result of a drunk driver in the state of Florida.
Sensible Solution: Not only can you make sure that you do not drink and drive, you can also take steps to ensure your own safety by making sure you do not get into a vehicle with someone who has been drinking.
Even if you aren’t 100% sure if he or she is too drunk to drive, it is always better to be safe than sorry. So even if your friend seems just a little tipsy, reach out to a designated driver, or call for a ride or a cab for yourself and your (even slightly) intoxicated friend.
Drunk-driving incidents are still a very real (and scary) part of our society. While you can’t control how other drivers act behind the wheel, you can control your own actions and do your part to reduce the risk of drunk driving.
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