Drunk Driving Fatalities In Florida

Drunk driving is something that we all know is wrong, but many of us do it anyway. While the number of motor vehicle-related fatalities has gone down slightly over the years, drunk driving is still a major cause. In fact, from 2020 to 2021, drunk driving fatalities increased by 14%,

In 2022, there were an estimated 42,795 fatalities due to motor vehicle crashes. This is 0.3% lower than it was in 2021. However, crash-related deaths rose more than 10% in 2021. In 2020, fatalities were up by 7%.

Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) was used to identify states with the highest rate of fatalities from car accidents involving at least one drunken driver. All 50 states, plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, were ranked by drunk driving fatalities per 100,000 residents.

A blood-alcohol content of .08 or higher is considered impaired. Judgment and driving abilities continue to worsen as blood alcohol levels increase. Alternative transportation programs have also shown some promise in helping to deter drunk driving. Studies suggest that rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft can reduce drunk driving accidents.

Last on the list at #52 was Washington, D.C. There were 1.8 fatalities per 100,000 residents. In terms of fatalities involving a driver with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.15 and above, there were 1.3 per 100,000 residents. Despite being last on the list, Washington, D.C. has still seen a 300% increase in drunk driving fatalities since 2012.

At number one on the list is Montana, which may be a shock to some people. However, the wide open space and desolation may entice drivers to take more risks and therefore drink and drive. There are 9.4 drunk driving fatalities per 100,000 residents. In regards to fatalities involving drivers with a BAC of 0.15 and above, there were 6.7 per 100,000. The change in drunk driving fatalities from 2012 was just a 16.9% increase, so a lot less than Washington D.C.’s rate.

So you may be wondering: how did Florida rate? Florida was #16 on the list. There were 4.7 drunk driving fatalities per 100,000 residents. Since 2012, Florida has seen a 43.7% increase in drunk driving fatalities.

The good news is that not all states saw an increase in drunk driving fatalities since 2012. Thirteen states plus Puerto Rico saw decreases. North Dakota saw the largest decrease, at 54.2%. Hawaii also saw a major decrease, at 40.4%. So did West Virginia, with a 30.9% decrease.

Contact Us Today

Drunk driving is still a major issue in today’s society. Intoxication leads to many serious crashes, with thousands of people injured and killed by it every year.

Drunk driving accidents are often devastating. If you or a loved one has been a victim, contact the Kissimmee auto accident lawyers at Draper Law Office. We offer compassionate representation as well as sound legal advice. Schedule a free consultation today by calling (407) 743-6628 or filling out the online form.

Source:

wfla.com/news/florida/how-drunk-driving-fatalities-in-florida-compare-to-the-rest-of-the-us/