Suffering injuries in a car accident caused by a drunk driver can be overwhelming, especially when you know the accident could have been entirely avoided. Drunk driving clearly violates a driver’s responsibility to keep others safe on the road.
Due to the significant risks intoxicated drivers pose, Florida has strict laws in place to punish those who choose to drive under the influence.
However, these penalties often fall short when it comes to compensating victims who have been harmed by these reckless actions. Suppose you or someone close to you has been injured in an accident involving a drunk driver.
In that case, it’s important to seek skilled legal representation to ensure you receive the compensation you are waiting for.
The CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm has experience and knowledge in successfully advocating for individuals injured in drunk driving-related accidents. Our bilingual team is dedicated to helping you navigate the legal system and fight for your rights.
What Kind of Assistance Do Our Florida Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys Provide?
Our Florida car accident lawyers are dedicated to providing strong, compassionate legal support for victims of drunk driving accidents. We offer comprehensive services to help you navigate the legal process and pursue justice.
Here’s how we can assist you:
- Detailed Case Investigation: A strong case starts with a careful investigation. Our team will meticulously review every aspect of your accident, from gathering police reports to speaking with witnesses, ensuring no detail is left unchecked.
- Skilled Negotiation: We pride ourselves on our ability to negotiate effectively with insurance companies. Our goal is to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries and damages while saving you the stress of prolonged legal battles.
- Aggressive Litigation: If a settlement cannot be reached, our skilled litigators can take your case to court. With a track record of victorious cases, we fiercely stand by your rights.
- Access to Medical Care: Your well-being is a top priority. We can connect you with reputable healthcare providers experienced in treating accident-related injuries, ensuring you receive the best possible care during recovery.
- Constant Communication: We believe in keeping you informed every step of the way. Our team provides clear, timely updates, ensuring you’re involved in all key decisions regarding your case.
How Does Our Florida Drunk Driving Accident Law Firm Provide Expert Legal Assistance?
Every drunk driving accident case is unique, and the potential compensation hinges on numerous specific details. Our skilled attorneys are dedicated to meticulously analyzing these factors to estimate the worth of your claim accurately.
Our investigative process encompasses a broad range of assessments:
- Conducting Thorough Background Checks: Ensuring all parties involved are comprehensively vetted.
- Evaluating Financial Responsibility: Understanding the financial obligations and capabilities of the defendant.
- Assessing Commercial Vehicle Ownership: Checking if the involved vehicle is linked to a commercial entity.
- Reviewing Insurance Coverage: Analyzing the extent of coverage, including the insurance policy’s specifics and the liability insurance limits.
- Exploring Additional Insurance Options: Investigating the possibility of excess or umbrella insurance that may increase the compensation pool.
- Asset and Record Investigations: Performing detailed checks to uncover any hidden assets or pertinent records that may impact the case.
- Examining Liquor Liability Violations: Investigating potential state liquor liability law breaches that could influence the case.
- Researching Relevant Laws: Delving into the applicable state and federal laws that govern drunk driving and personal injury claims.
- Considering Legal Precedents and Prosecutions: Factoring in the outcomes of related criminal charges and state attorney prosecutions to inform the strategy.
We encourage you to schedule a free consultation to discuss these elements and how they might impact your situation. Engaging with our attorneys early on in the process is important.
Drunk driving cases are complex and require prompt action to safeguard vital evidence and comply with legal deadlines.
Consulting us early ensures your rights are protected and your case is positioned for the best possible outcome.
Typical Injuries Sustained in Drunk Driving Accidents in Florida
In the unfortunate event of a drunk driving accident, victims may suffer from a range of injuries, some of which carry the potential for serious, long-term consequences.
Here’s an overview of the typical injuries encountered:
- Contusions and Swelling: Although often considered minor, contusions and swelling can be the first signs of more serious underlying issues, such as internal bleeding, and should always be carefully monitored.
- Bone Fractures: Common in the violent impacts of car accidents, broken bones can vary in severity and sometimes lead to ongoing health issues or disability if not correctly managed.
- Severe Cuts: These injuries can cause substantial blood loss and may lead to permanent scars or disfigurement, necessitating immediate and sometimes ongoing medical treatment.
- Internal Damage: Injuries to internal organs are particularly dangerous and can be life-threatening, often requiring surgical intervention and extensive hospital stays.
- Neck and Shoulder Trauma: Injuries like whiplash occur frequently during car accidents due to sudden stops or impacts, leading to persistent pain and reduced range of motion.
- Spinal Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord is a grave concern in any vehicular accident, with potential outcomes ranging from temporary mobility issues to permanent paralysis.
- Brain Trauma: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) represent some of the most serious consequences of accidents, potentially resulting in lasting cognitive deficits, emotional and behavioral changes, and lifelong disability.
Who Else Can Be Held Liable in a Florida Drunk Driving Accident?
While the drunk driver is typically the primary defendant in DUI accident cases, other parties may also hold liability, depending on the specifics of the incident. Consulting with an experienced DUI accident attorney is important to explore all potential avenues for justice and compensation.
Here’s an overview of possible liable parties under Florida’s legal framework:
- Dram Shop Liability: In Florida, bars, restaurants, and other establishments that serve alcohol may be held accountable under Dram Shop laws if they serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals or minors, contributing to their impairment.
- Social Host Liability: Individuals who host private gatherings and serve alcohol to minors or excessively intoxicated guests can also be held responsible if their actions contribute to a drunk driving accident.
- Liability for Minors and Habitually Addicted Individuals: Special considerations are given when the intoxicated driver is a minor or an adult with a known addiction to alcohol. In such cases, those who provided the alcohol may face additional legal actions.
The applicability of these liabilities can vary significantly from one case to another. Engaging our knowledgeable Florida drunk driving accident lawyer can help clarify who might be held legally responsible in your specific situation, ensuring that all potential sources of compensation are thoroughly explored.
What are Florida’s Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Regulations?
In Florida, the threshold for legally permissible Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is .08%. Exceeding this BAC level while operating a vehicle can lead to significant legal repercussions, as Florida enforces strict penalties for drunk driving offenses.
When a driver is found with a BAC over .08%, they can be charged with a DUI, which, depending on the circumstances, may be classified as a third-degree felony, such as involvement in an accident or repeated offenses. The legal implications extend beyond simple fines—convicted individuals may face license suspension or revocation, severely disrupting their ability to travel and manage daily responsibilities.
Furthermore, for those involved in DUI incidents that result in serious injuries or fatalities, the consequences are even more dire. Such cases may lead to imprisonment, highlighting the stringent measures Florida employs to deter drunk driving and safeguard public safety.
The state’s rigorous approach serves as a deterrent, emphasizing the severity with which it views drunk driving and its commitment to maintaining road safety for all citizens.
Essential Actions to Take After a DUI Accident in Florida
If you find yourself involved in a DUI accident, taking the right steps immediately afterward is important for your health and legal rights.
Here’s a guide to navigating the consequences of such an incident:
- Prioritize Medical Attention: Regardless of how minor your injuries appear, it’s critical to get medical attention immediately. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or organ damage, can go unnoticed initially but may have severe consequences. Document all medical treatments and expenses, which are vital for legal claims.
- Report the Incident: In Florida, you must file a police report for any accident involving significant vehicle damage (over $500), injuries, or towing. Ensure that the officer records all pertinent details about the incident and your injuries, as this official report is a cornerstone of any subsequent legal action.
- Gather Evidence at the Scene: If possible, collect contact information from witnesses, and take photographs or videos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any relevant license plates. Check for nearby surveillance cameras that might have recorded the incident, noting their locations for future reference.
- Maintain a Detailed Record: Keep a daily log of your recovery and any symptoms or pain you experience. Attendance at legal proceedings against the drunk driver might also be necessary, where you could be asked to testify or present a victim impact statement.
- Stay Off Social Media: Resist the urge to discuss the accident on social media. Comments made online can be used against you by insurance adjusters or opposing legal counsel to challenge the credibility of your injury claims.
- Consult a Specialized Lawyer: Dealing with the legal ramifications of a DUI accident requires professional guidance, especially in a no-fault state like Florida. When selecting an attorney, ensure they specialize in personal injury and have experience with DUI cases. Verify their readiness to handle a civil trial, should it become necessary.
Schedule Your Free Consultation with Our Leading Florida Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys
Our dedicated team of car accident attorneys specializes in handling cases involving drunk driving incidents. We have successfully assisted countless clients in navigating the complicated aftermath of such accidents, achieving favorable outcomes in their legal battles.
We recognize the profound impact a drunk driving accident can have on your finances, emotional well-being, and physical health. That’s why our Florida personal injury attorneys commit to providing comprehensive support throughout your legal journey.
We aim to devote the necessary resources and attention to your case to enhance your chances of a successful resolution.
If you’re ready to discuss your case and explore your legal options, contact the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm today. Call us at (813) 492-2958 or initiate a 24/7 live conversation for a confidential and free consultation.
Let us help you take the next step towards securing the justice and settlement you deserve.
