Spring break in Florida – a lot of fun, but a lot of danger. Many car accidents and pedestrian accidents occur during Spring Break because of the drivers’ unfamiliarity of Florida’s road and concentration on other things besides safe driving. Unfortunately, many automobile accident injuries are also caused by drinking and driving while on Spring Break.
Florida law enforcement agencies have announced that they will be out enforcing the state’s drinking age laws and working to keep impaired drivers off the road.
The Florida Highway Patrol recently posted these tips to help everyone enjoy Spring Break safely:
- The legal drinking age in Florida is 21. Anyone under the age of 21 in possession of alcohol can be cited for a second-degree misdemeanor, which could result in court costs, fines and other legal consequences.
- Selling alcohol to anyone under 21 or buying alcohol for anyone under 21 is also a misdemeanor.
- Possession of an open alcoholic beverage container in a vehicle - whether the vehicle is in motion or stopped – by the driver and/or passenger is a violation of Florida law.
- A taxi or bus ride is much cheaper than a DUI. Plan ahead if you plan to drink alcohol.
- Take the keys from an impaired friend.
- Watch out for combining alcohol with medicines. It could have deadly consequences.
- Watch the sun intake and alcohol consumption. Too much of both could result in impairment.
- Dial *FHP (*347) on your cell phone to report an impaired driver.
Even we old guys and girls need to be alert about these Spring Break tips. Remember, Spring Breakers who cause car accidents don’t only crash into other spring breakers. You and I and our families are at risk for Spring Breakers who may celebrate too much.
Drive safely and watch out for those who don’t. It could make or break your Spring Break!
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Personal Injury Attorney Matthew Noyes represents those injured in car accidents, motorcycle crashes, bicycle accidents, pedestrian accidents and other types of personal injury matters. His Clearwater law firm – Perenich Caulfield Avril Noyes – is one of the oldest personal injury law firms in Pinellas County. Call Attorney Matthew Noyes now at 727-796-8282 or simply click here to schedule a free case consultation.