A Fort Myers drunk-driving accident lawyer at Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. says that December is one of the most dangerous months for driving and has been deemed National Impaired Driving Prevention Month by Presidential proclamation. Between Christmas and New Year’s, there is an average increase in alcohol-impaired driving fatalities of 34 percent.

ABC News reported on December 2 that the “4 D’s” - drowsy, drugged, drunk, and distracted drivers - kill thousands of people every year. These deaths could have been avoided.

At a combined meeting of the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the Lee County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO), the Fort Myers Police Department (MFPD), the Cape Coral Police Department (CCPD), and Lee Health, representatives reminded drivers they would be working together to keep our roads safe during the holiday season.

Lisa Barnes, deputy chief of police for the CCPD said, “At 55 mph, sending or reading a text or email is the equivalent of driving down a football field with your eyes closed.” Lee Health shared new statistics that showed 20 percent of drivers admit to surfing the web while driving.

“Unfortunately we see so many types of driving but drugged driving in particular – about 58% of people fatally injured had either marijuana, opiates, or illegal drugs in their system,” said Sheriff Carmine Marceno of the LCSO.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says, “Many substances can impair driving, including alcohol, some over-the-counter and prescription drugs, and illegal drugs. Alcohol, marijuana, and other drugs impair the ability to drive because they slow coordination, judgment, and reaction times. Cocaine and methamphetamine can make drivers more aggressive and reckless.”

“Certain kinds of prescription medicines, including benzodiazepines and opioids, can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impair cognitive functioning (thinking and judgment),” says the National Institute on Drug Abuse. 

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has found that teen and older adult drivers are most often affected by drugged driving. Teens were found to be less experienced and likely to underestimate or not recognize dangerous situations. They are also more likely to speed and allow less distance between vehicles, says a Fort Myers drunk driving lawyer.

This time of year, more deputies can be seen patrolling the roads, especially in areas known for drunk drivers. “Zero tolerance – drive sober or get pulled over. You’re going to be off our streets,” Chief Marceno said.

“Should you or a loved one be injured due to the negligence of another, please contact Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. after seeking medical attention. We are available 24/7, and there are no costs or attorney fees until we receive a monetary recovery for you,” said Fort Myers Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Randall Spivey.

Fort Myers Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Randall L. Spivey is a Board Certified Trial Attorney – the highest recognition for competence bestowed by the Florida Bar and a distinction earned by just one percent (1%) of Florida attorneys.  He has handled over 2,000 personal injury and wrongful death cases throughout Florida.  For a free and confidential consultation to discuss your legal rights, contact Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A., in Lee County at 239.337.7483 or toll-free at 1.888.477.4839, or by email to Randall@SpiveyLaw.com.  Visit SpiveyLaw.com for more information.  You can contact Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A.in Charlotte County at 941.764.7748 and in Collier County at 239.793.7748.