New Year’s Eve DUI Accidents: What To Know In Florida

Bill Allen | January 3, 2025 | Car Accidents

New Year's Eve DUI Accidents: What To Know In Florida

Getting ready to celebrate New Year’s in Florida means facing higher risks of drunk driving crashes. DUI accidents on New Year’s Eve harm victims and their families across Florida.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says New Year’s Eve is one of the worst nights for drunk driving crashes. During this holiday, drunk driving deaths go up by 116% compared to regular days.

Understanding DUI Accidents On New Year’s Eve

When holiday parties mix with drinking, Florida roads become much more dangerous. Police see many more DUI arrests and alcohol crashes during New Year’s Eve. Recent data shows that Florida ranks among the top states for holiday DUI incidents, with major cities seeing up to three times the normal number of drunk driving arrests.

Many people don’t realize that even a few drinks can make driving dangerous. Blood alcohol levels can stay high for hours after your last drink. Plus, cold medicine, lack of sleep, and holiday stress can make alcohol’s effects even stronger.

Consider the following:

  • Most drunk drivers are on the road between 6 PM on New Year’s Eve and 6 AM on New Year’s Day
  • People often drive to multiple parties, spending more time on roads with drunk drivers
  • The weather, wet roads, and fog in December can make drunk driving even more dangerous

Knowing these risks helps everyone make safer choices about New Year’s travel.

Preventing New Year’s Eve DUI Accidents

You can take simple steps to avoid drunk driving crashes. Many apps and services now make it easy to get home safely. 

Local groups and businesses often give free or cheap rides on New Year’s Eve:

  • Pick your ride home before you go out – choose a sober driver, book a ride service, or stay overnight
  • If you host a party, help guests find safe rides and stop serving drinks well before the party ends
  • Stay watchful on the road – look for cars that weave between lanes or change speed suddenly

These safety steps help protect everyone during holiday celebrations.

Florida laws protect drunk driving victims. You may collect damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other costs. Sometimes, courts order drunk drivers to pay extra money as punishment for their dangerous choices.

In Florida, you usually have two years after the crash to file a lawsuit. But some cases need faster action. For example, if a government vehicle hits you, you’ll have much less time to act.

Florida also uses comparative negligence rules. This means how much money you get depends on who was at fault. That’s why you need good records and an experienced lawyer to protect your rights.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reports that drunk driving crashes cause worse injuries and more deaths than other accidents. These cases often need lawyers who know how to handle complex evidence.

Take these steps right after a New Year’s Eve DUI crash to help your case:

  • Get copies of police reports, medical records, and witness statements
  • Take pictures of damaged vehicles and the crash scene
  • See a doctor even if you feel okay
  • Write down what you remember about the crash while it’s fresh in your mind
  • Keep all receipts for expenses related to the accident
  • Don’t talk about the crash on social media

Remember, insurance companies often try to settle quickly and for less money than you deserve. They might call you right after the crash when you’re still upset and confused. It’s best to talk to a lawyer before you accept any offers or sign any papers.

Quick action helps you build a stronger case and get fair payment. Many people make the mistake of waiting too long to get legal help. An experienced team will help you understand your rights and fight for fair payment. 

Contact Our Gainesville Car Accident Law Firm at Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers in North Central Florida

If you need legal assistance, contact the Gainesville car accident lawyers at Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers at your nearest location to schedule a free consultation today, we’re open 24 hours daily.

We have three convenient locations in Marion County and Alachua County, North Central Florida:

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Gainesville Office
2550 SW 76th St #150
Gainesville, FL 32608
(877) 255-3652

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Downtown Gainesville
621 W University Ave
Gainesville, FL 32601
(866) 928-6292

Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Ocala Office
112 S Pine Ave
Ocala, FL 34471
(352) 351-3258