There is no doubt that Florida drunk driving accidents are a serious concern. Each year, these very preventable accidents claim far too many lives. However, there are concerns about certain practices and realities, which can help contribute to these types of Florida car accidents.
For example, while driving is said to be a privilege, some experts are concerned about the ways that multiple offenders are allowed to keep their driving privileges. Some families who lose a loved one to drunk driving are surprised to find that a driver with a record of DUI arrests is permitted to keep driving. While driving suspensions for DUI cases are common, these suspensions are virtually always temporary. After some weeks or months, the driver is allowed back on the road, even if they have repeatedly shown themselves to make the wrong decisions about drinking and driving. One problem is that driving is now accepted as a necessity rather than a privilege. Many people rely on driving a car in order to get to work or to run everyday errands. As a result, taking away driving privileges becomes a severe hardship and few are willing to suspend a license permanently. However, it does mean that DUI drivers with long track records of accidents are allowed behind the wheel again and again.
Another issue is the increasing number of places where alcohol is sold. Some advocates are worried about the places where alcoholic beverages can be purchased. As a result of the economic downturn, for example, many fast food restaurants have added alcoholic beverages to their options. Some Burger King restaurants, Sonic locations, Chipotle, and Starbucks locations offer alcoholic beverages, including beer and wine. Other chains have plans to add alcohol to their menus. Critics believe that such a move can help contribute to drunk driving, since in many cases people drive to these restaurants.
Another common problem is alternatives available for those who wish to make responsible decisions. Florida has many large cities, including Miami and For Lauderdale, which tend to have large public transit systems and many transportation options. Getting home safely in these cities is often quite simple. In more remote and urban areas, however, taxi cabs and buses may not be as readily available. As well, many people hesitate to take public transportation, since that often means having to return for their car the next day – at an added cost. Leaving a car overnight can also lead to a parking ticket and taxis home can be expensive. During holidays, there are free ride-home programs available, but during the rest of the summer such services are not available. Some critics say that more needs to be done to make it easier for drivers to make the right decisions after drinking.
Have you been in a traffic accident in Florida? Contact the Flaxman Law Group for a free accident consultation before you make any decisions in your case. With law offices in Homestead, Miami, and Hollywood, and thousands of cases successfully completed, the Flaxman Law Group can help you understand your options and your rights, so that you can move forward with confidence.