Drunk driving accidents wreak havoc throughout the year in Tampa and across the country. However, the holidays can be an especially dangerous time of the year due to the large number of impaired drivers on the road, something one Tampa family knows all too well.
"That one decision is like taking a picture frame, throwing it on the ground, and the glass shattering,” Linda Unfried said in a recent interview with ABC Action News Tampa about a driver’s decision decades ago to get behind the wheel and cause a fatal drunk driving accident that killed Unfried’s 41-year-old sister, Josie DiStefano Palomino. “That's what it did to my family."
A 17-year-old underage drunk driver traveling 80 mph caused the fatal head-on collision that took Palomino’s life in 1983, according to a recent Fox 13 News story warning people about the dangers of drunk driving during the holiday season.
How Common Are Drunk Driving Accidents?
Unfortunately, drunk driving accidents happen far too often. Every day, 37 lives are lost in crashes caused by drunk drivers, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In 2022, these tragedies resulted in 13,524 fatalities nationwide—the highest number of drunk driving deaths in a single year since 2007, according to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
To put it into perspective, nearly one in three car accident fatalities (32%) each year is linked to alcohol-impaired driving, based on NHTSA data. These preventable accidents leave countless families grieving and highlight the ongoing danger of driving under the influence.
Are Drunk Driving Accidents A Serious Problem In Florida?
Drunk driving accidents continue to be a significant issue in Florida, with alarming statistics highlighting the ongoing danger. In 2022, Florida saw 5,262 drunk driving crashes, leading to 3,084 injuries and 423 fatalities, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). These numbers reflect an increase compared to recent years, such as 2019, when there were 4,984 drunk driving accidents, 3,064 injuries, and 378 deaths statewide.
In Tampa, drunk driving remains a continuous threat. In 2022, Hillsborough County, which includes Tampa, recorded 483 drunk driving accidents, resulting in 292 injuries and 35 deaths. This is slightly higher than in 2019, when 481 drunk driving crashes caused 256 injuries and 20 fatalities in the county, according to FLHSMV data.
Are drunk driving accidents more common during the holidays?
The holiday season—from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve—is one of the most dangerous times to be on the road, largely due to an increase in drunk drivers. This surge in impaired driving leads to a significant number of serious and fatal car accidents during the holidays.
In December 2022 alone, there were 1,062 drunk driving fatalities nationwide—the highest December total since 2007, according to the latest data from the NHTSA.
How to stay safe from drunk drivers during the holidays
While you can’t control the actions of others, you can take steps to reduce your risk on the road. Here are some tips to help protect yourself and others:
- Avoid driving late at night: Drunk driving incidents are more likely to occur during nighttime hours, especially after parties and events. If possible, plan your trips during the day.
- Stay aware of other drivers: Watch for signs of impaired driving, such as swerving, erratic braking, or inconsistent speeds. Keep your distance and report suspicious drivers to local authorities.
- Buckle up: Seat belts save lives and are your best defense against impaired drivers. Make sure everyone in your vehicle is buckled up before hitting the road.
- Choose safer routes: Stick to main roads and highways, which are better lit and more likely to have law enforcement presence. Avoid areas known for heavy bar and club traffic.
- Don’t assume other drivers are sober: Even during the day, some drivers may still be impaired from the night before. Always drive defensively and be prepared for sudden stops or unsafe maneuvers.
If you or a loved one is injured in a drunk driving accident, it’s essential to act quickly to protect your rights. Contact an experienced attorney to explore your options and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Don’t face the aftermath of a drunk driving accident alone
Drunk driving accidents can turn lives upside down, especially during the holidays when impaired drivers flood the roads. For victims and their families, the physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming. While nothing can undo the harm caused, you have the right to seek justice and hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions.
At Armando Personal Injury Law, we understand the unique challenges crash victims face after a drunk driving accident. Insurance companies often try to minimize or deny claims, even when liability seems clear. That’s why it’s critical to have an experienced Tampa drunk driving accident attorney by your side to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
We’ve secured life-changing results for accident victims, including multi-million-dollar settlements, and we’re ready to put our experience to work for you. Whether you’re dealing with medical bills, lost income, or the emotional weight of your injuries, we’ll handle every detail so you can focus on healing.
Don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact Armando Personal Injury Law today for a free case evaluation. Let us fight for your future while you focus on rebuilding your life.
"After a car accident, having Armando on my side was a lifesaver. His firm is excellent, with a knowledgeable staff ready to guide you through every detail and ensure you're well taken care of. Armando was dedicated to my case, working tirelessly with insurance companies, medical providers, and car repair services to secure every possible form of assistance. I highly recommend them!" — Megan S., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐