Florida’s warm weather and walkable neighborhoods make it a popular destination for pedestrians. However, the dangers posed by impaired drivers can turn a simple walk into a life-threatening event. Impaired driving significantly increases the risk of pedestrian accidents, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities.
At FGB Law, we understand how devastating these accidents can be for victims and their families. This article explores how impaired driving impacts pedestrian safety in Florida and outlines the legal options available to those seeking justice.
How Impaired Driving Affects Pedestrian Safety
Impaired driving involves operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other substances that hinder a driver’s abilities. This behavior has a direct and dangerous impact on pedestrian safety.
1. Reduced Reaction Time
- Alcohol and drugs slow reaction times, making it harder for drivers to stop or swerve when a pedestrian crosses their path.
2. Impaired Judgment
- Impairment affects a driver’s ability to judge distances and speeds accurately, increasing the likelihood of hitting a pedestrian.
3. Difficulty Staying in Lanes
- Impaired drivers often drift out of their lanes, endangering pedestrians walking along sidewalks or crossing streets.
4. Poor Decision-Making
- Decisions such as speeding through a crosswalk or ignoring traffic signals are more common among impaired drivers.
5. Increased Likelihood of Hit-and-Run Incidents
- Drivers under the influence are more likely to flee the scene after hitting a pedestrian to avoid legal consequences.
Florida’s Impaired Driving Laws
Florida has strict laws aimed at reducing impaired driving and protecting pedestrians.
1. Legal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits
- The legal BAC limit for drivers is 0.08%, with stricter limits for commercial drivers (0.04%) and drivers under 21 (0.02%).
2. Penalties for Impaired Driving
- Penalties for DUI include fines, license suspension, mandatory DUI programs, and potential jail time.
- Enhanced penalties apply when impaired driving results in serious injury or death.
3. Zero-Tolerance Policy for Underage Drivers
- Florida enforces a zero-tolerance policy for underage drivers, penalizing any BAC level of 0.02% or higher.
Common Pedestrian Injuries Caused by Impaired Driving
Pedestrian accidents involving impaired drivers often result in severe injuries due to the vulnerability of those on foot.
1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
- A collision can cause head trauma, leading to cognitive impairments, memory loss, or long-term disabilities.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries
- Impacts to the spine can result in partial or full paralysis, requiring lifelong care.
3. Fractures and Broken Bones
- High-impact collisions often lead to broken bones, especially in the legs and pelvis.
4. Internal Injuries
- Damage to internal organs can occur due to the force of the collision.
5. Lacerations and Soft Tissue Injuries
- Cuts, bruises, and sprains are common but can still require significant medical attention.
6. Fatalities
- Tragically, some pedestrian accidents involving impaired drivers result in loss of life, leaving families to cope with the devastating aftermath.
Seeking Justice After a Pedestrian Accident
Victims of pedestrian accidents caused by impaired drivers have legal options to hold the at-fault party accountable and recover compensation.
1. Filing a Personal Injury Claim
- Victims can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
2. Wrongful Death Claims
- In cases of fatal accidents, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim to recover funeral costs and other damages.
3. Pursuing Punitive Damages
- In some cases, victims may be awarded punitive damages to punish the impaired driver and deter similar behavior.
Compensation Available for Pedestrian Accident Victims
Victims of pedestrian accidents caused by impaired drivers may be entitled to the following types of compensation:
- Medical Expenses: Covers surgeries, hospital stays, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: Compensates for income lost due to injuries and reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Addresses physical pain and emotional distress.
- Property Damage: Includes reimbursement for damaged personal property.
- Wrongful Death Damages: Provides financial relief for families who have lost a loved one.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident caused by an impaired driver, taking the right steps can protect your rights:
- Seek Medical Attention
- Prioritize your health by visiting a doctor immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
- Call the Police
- File an accident report, ensuring the impaired driver’s actions are documented.
- Document the Scene
- Take photos of your injuries, the accident scene, and any evidence of impairment (e.g., empty bottles).
- Gather Witness Information
- Collect contact details from witnesses who can support your version of events.
- Consult an Attorney
- An experienced attorney can investigate the accident, negotiate with insurance companies, and file a lawsuit if necessary.
Why Choose FGB Law for Pedestrian Accident Cases?
At FGB Law, we have extensive experience handling cases involving impaired drivers. Our team is committed to seeking justice for pedestrian accident victims and holding negligent drivers accountable.
From gathering evidence to negotiating settlements, we handle every aspect of your case with compassion and dedication. Let us help you secure the compensation you need to move forward.
Contact FGB Law to Protect Your Rights
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident caused by an impaired driver, you deserve justice. At FGB Law, we fight tirelessly to ensure victims in Port Charlotte receive the compensation they deserve.
Call FGB Law today at (941) 979-9010 or complete our online form to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you take the first step toward recovery.