DUI Accidents

Have You Been Injured By A Drunk Driver?

The truth = every single injury and death caused by drunk driver or drugged driver is totally preventable. When a drunk or drugged person gets behind the wheel of a car, truck, motorcycle or boat the results can be tragic – serious catastrophic injuries or even wrongful death.

On average, someone is killed by a drunk driver every 50 minutes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In Florida, drunk driving contributed to 814 of the more than 3,000 fatal accidents in 2018.

Recovering Damages in A Drunk Driving Case

Florida has two separate systems of justice related to driving under the influence (DUI) crashes: the criminal justice system and the civil justice system. Even if the DUI or drugged driver is not charged or is not convicted of DUI/DWI, you can still bring a civil lawsuit for compensatory damages and punitive damages if you have some proof of the DUI/DWI driving.

Compensatory damages can include medical expenses for past and future care, lost wages (past and future), pain and suffering, loss of consortium, property damage and disfigurement (permanently scared). Punitive damages may also be awarded, if the driver’s blood alcohol exceeded the legal limit (.08 BAC) or the driver behaved recklessly and reprehensibly.

Florida also has a Dram Shop Act which provides penalties to a party host (including adults who provide liquor to teens at private house parties), bars, restaurants or other businesses (sport stadiums) that sells or provides alcohol to an obviously intoxicated person or a minor (underage) who then drives drunk and causes harm (property damage, injuries, and death).

Contacting an Experienced Attorney

If you have been contacted by the drunk driver’s insurance company, beware: their goal is to minimize your recovery. Insurance companies look out for their best interest, NOT YOURS! This is why it is very important to always consult with an attorney before accepting any settlement

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured or died due to a drunk driver or a drugged driver, and would like to learn more about your legal rights, please contact our Personal Injury Lawyers here.