Drunk Driving Accidents

How to Avoid Them and What to Do If the Worst Happens

A University of Florida agriculture student stopped at a red light was suddenly rear-ended. The other driver fled the scene. Shortly after, the driver was apprehended and found to be under the influence of alcohol. The UF student suffered two herniated discs. He experienced severe neck and back pain, along with muscle spasms. When conservative care failed, he was forced to undergo a hemilaminectomy and microdiscectomy. After the surgery, doctors provided guidance on gradually increasing his activity levels. However, he continued to experience pain stemming from the 2012 accident.

After graduating, the former UF student pursued a degree in computer programming while working approximately 60 hours per week on a fish farm. The physically demanding job required that he regularly move 50-pound bags of fish feed. He consistently experienced moderate pain, with flare-ups about twice a week to severe pain. His long-time dream is to run a fish farm of his own. Yet due to the simple act of stopping at a red light on an August day, he cannot perform his dream job without pain and discomfort.

Attorney William Ruffier represented the young UF graduate in a civil suit against the impaired driver. The defendant denied drug and alcohol use, but Ruffier and team were able to track down his substance use via his phone records and social media. Insurance was offered to settle the case. Yet Ruffier went above and beyond, refusing to resolve the case until the defendant paid personal funds above the insurance.

According to the CDC, drunk drivers got behind the wheel 147 million times in 2018. Statistics show that 2 out of every 3 people will be impacted by a drunk driving crash in their lifetime. Tips to avoid drunk driving accidents and minimize their severity include wearing a seatbelt, maintaining a generous following distance, and being especially careful at intersections and on holidays. However, drunk driving accidents can happen to even the most cautious individuals. If you or a loved one experience a drunk driving car crash, seek representation that will go the extra mile to secure the best possible recovery.