How COVID-19 Has Affected Florida DUI Statistics & Traffic Violations
In the early stages of the pandemic, there was speculation that quarantining would decrease the number of DUIs across the country. The reality is, DUIs and many other crimes are more likely to occur whenever and wherever there are large gatherings or celebrations involving alcohol. Therefore, it would make sense for the rates of DUIs and other traffic violations to drop with bars closed and fewer cars on the streets.
Florida DUI Arrests Decreased in March 2020, but Speeding Increased
According to Florida Highway Patrol statistics, that’s exactly what happened in the first month of Florida’s quarantine. For the 10-day period from March 17 to March 27, state troopers made 34 drunk driving arrests in 2018 and 39 in 2019. However, during that same period in 2020, the number decreased to 15. Overall crashes also decreased during this time period. Those numbers are 1,936, 1,415 and 954 in 2018, 2019 and 2020, respectively.
The Florida Highway Patrol attributed these favorable numbers to the fact that bars were closed and fewer people were out driving in the first place. Unfortunately, drivers did seem to take advantage of the lighter traffic on Interstates 4 & 95. Troopers reported plenty of speedsters going 20, 30 and even 40 miles over the speed limit.
What Gainesville DUI Lawyers Want You to Know
Anytime there is a decrease in DUIs and car accidents in general, it’s a great thing for our communities, no matter the reason for the change. And we hope that this trend continues for as long as it possibly can. However, there are good reasons to believe that the Florida DUI statistics will return to their previous levels as bars reopen and life slowly returns to “normal.”
Florida takes driving under the influence very seriously and has some of the strictest DUI penalties in the United States. Did you know there is actually no “legal limit” for driving with alcohol in your system? The state of Florida can prosecute you whether your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is above .08 or not.
The best way to avoid harsh, life-altering penalties is to never get behind the wheel if you are intoxicated. More importantly, it’s also the best way to avoid injuring or killing someone in a DUI-related incident.
Contact the Florida DUI Lawyers of Avera & Smith
As experienced DUI and car accident attorneys, our team at Avera & Smith has defended clients against DUIs and DWIs. And we understand that many of them never thought they would be in this position. But it’s important to remember that police officers must follow specific rules during DUI traffic stops and arrests.
If you have been accused of driving under the influence, our Gainesville DUI lawyers are here to help. We will work hard to ensure that your rights are upheld. Contact us today for a free consultation.