Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a leading cause of motor vehicle accidents in Florida, but it isn’t the only form of impairment that can trigger a crash. In fact, there are five main types of driver impairment than can lead to an accident.
Driving while impaired is extremely dangerous and potentially life-threatening, which is why it’s essential to be aware of the five types of impairment that can lead to a car crash. We’ll break down how physical fatigue, mental distraction, and other impairments can hinder someone’s ability to properly operate a motor vehicle safely.
Alcohol
One of the most common and hazardous forms of impaired driving in Florida is operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. Even just a small amount can significantly impair an individual’s capacity to operate their vehicle properly.
Alcohol can impair your coordination, judgment, and reaction time – all of which are key components for safe driving. Additionally, it increases the temptation to take unnecessary risks that you wouldn’t usually entertain when sober. Even if you believe you are capable of safely navigating roads while inebriated, remember that accidents become far more likely under these conditions.
In Florida, operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of 0.08% or above is considered illegal and could lead to serious consequences such as license suspension and other legal repercussions. For your safety and the protection of others, never drive while impaired by substances such as alcohol.
Distraction
In Florida, distraction is a major cause of motor vehicle accidents. Whether it’s simply checking your phone or taking your eyes off the road for too long, distraction can have grave consequences. Drivers who do not keep their eyes on the street cannot respond quickly to any sudden changes in their environment, such as an animal running across the roadway or other cars unexpectedly stopping. If traffic suddenly slows down or comes to a halt altogether, distracted drivers may be unable to react in time and avoid possible collisions.
Not paying attention can also have disastrous consequences. Consider a driver who, while distracted, makes an instantaneous decision that leads to recklessness such as veering into another lane or going over the speed limit; outcomes of these actions could be catastrophic and potentially life-threatening.
In order to ensure the safety of all drivers, it is vital that individuals keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel. When distractions arise, pull over somewhere safe and park your vehicle before using any device or making a phone call. If you’re driving with passengers be sure everyone is focused on safety as opposed to engaging in activities that may cause an interruption for the driver.
Drowsiness
Drowsy driving is an all-too-common hazard on Florida’s roads and highways – as well as across the entire nation. When a person is worn out or fatigued, it becomes extremely hard for them to stay focused while operating a motor vehicle. It’s essential that you remain alert when behind the wheel; if you begin feeling greatly sleepy, find somewhere safe to pull over and take some time off from your journey.
To maintain alertness behind the wheel, one should consider taking a nap, eating something nutritious and energizing, or drinking some caffeine. It is imperative to get proper rest before driving; sleep deprivation can affect decision-making abilities as well as reaction speed.
If you have a lengthy drive ahead, it is crucial to take regular pauses in order to remain hydrated and well-rested. Doing this will help keep your alertness levels up while driving – make sure you are aware of the signs of drowsiness and how fast they can affect you; this is especially important when on long trips.
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms while driving – yawning, blurry sight, and difficulty keeping your head up – then it’s time to pull over. Drowsy driving is an extremely serious issue that must not be overlooked.
Drugs
Whether it’s recreational drugs or legally prescribed medication, any type of drug use can have an adverse effect on your driving ability and decision-making skills.
In Florida, some of the most commonly used drugs associated with accidents are illicit narcotics. These substances have been known to alter a user’s ability to make sound judgments or react in time while driving – both leading to slower response times and poor decisions when on the road. Certain prescription medications may also cause side effects like drowsiness or disorientation which can significantly impact a driver’s capability of operating their vehicle responsibly.
It’s essential to understand how the medications you consume may influence your driving skills. Adhere to the instructions on each drug label, and never take more than what is prescribed. Additionally, consult with a physician or pharmacist before mixing any medication with alcohol. When feeling fatigued or drowsy while operating a vehicle, ensure that you are taking regular breaks so that you can rest and confirm whether it is safe for you to resume driving.
Medical Condition
People with ongoing medical issues must adhere to their physician’s instructions regarding the management of their condition and when it is acceptable to operate a motor vehicle. Appropriate regimens, such as taking medications, getting proper rest, and consuming a balanced diet can all aid in reducing the risk of an accident. For those who experience brief illnesses or ailments, making sure that any symptoms are properly monitored prior to driving is essential – symptoms such as dizziness or blurred vision could potentially lead to an incident on the road.
It is essential to be mindful of any medication you take and the potential adverse effects it may have. Drowsiness, confusion, or other issues caused by medications can make driving unsafe. it is important to fully understand any possible side effects, if you are concerned about how your medicine may affect your driving abilities, speak with a physician for further guidance and clarification.
If You Were Involved In A Car Accident Caused By An Impaired Driver, Contact A Sarasota Personal Injury Lawyer At Christine Law
At Christine Law in Sarasota, Florida, we have the legal expertise and skill to help you secure the highest possible settlement after a car accident. With years of experience assisting clients with their insurance claims and recovering over $9 million in compensation, we can make sure that your interests are properly represented and that you receive the highest amount of compensation possible.
When dealing with car accidents, the right legal representation is critical to ensure you get the settlement you deserve. Hire an experienced attorney and have peace of mind that all legal aspects are under control. Maximize your claim today by calling Christine Law at (941) 548-9555 or completing our online consultation form, we’re ready to help you each and every step of the way.
