Every Day, Florida Sees 15 Accidents Caused By Drunk Driving
DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) are terms used to describe operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. While both refer to impaired driving, DUI is more commonly used in Florida and often includes impairment by substances other than alcohol. A blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is considered legally intoxicated in Florida, putting everyone on the road at serious risk. Our Florida drunk driving accident attorneys are here to hold negligent drivers accountable and help victims navigate the aftermath.
Drunk driving crashes are not just numbers. They are life-altering events. In 2024 alone, Florida reported 1,837 drunk driving accidents, with over 1,000 people injured and 145 lives lost. Many of these crashes involve younger drivers between the ages of 21 and 34, especially in nightlife-heavy urban areas. If you or someone you love has been impacted, a drunk driving accident lawyer in Florida can provide the guidance and support you need to recover both physically and financially.
Why Drunk Driving Accidents Are So Hard To Control?
Drunk driving accidents remain difficult to control because alcohol impairs judgement and reaction time. This often leads individuals to underestimate their own impairment. Even with strict laws and public awareness campaigns, many drivers still make the dangerous choice to drive after drinking. Repeat offenders and first-time violators alike contribute to the staggering number of accidents across Florida each year. Social settings like bars and nightclubs further fuel this risky behavior.
Enforcement can only do so much when cultural attitudes and peer pressure play a role. In densely populated areas with vibrant nightlife scenes, the temptation to drive after drinking is higher. Ride-sharing services have helped reduce risks, but not all drivers use them responsibly. This is why having an experienced Florida drunk driving accident lawyer is essential when you’re injured due to someone else’s recklessness.
Steps To Take After An Accident Caused By A Drunk Driver
- Call 911 immediately
- Seek medical attention without delay
- Gather witness names and contacts
- Take photos of the scene and damage
- Request a copy of the police report
- Contact a Florida drunk driving accident attorney
Why Do You Need A Drunk Driving Accident Attorney in Florida?
- To Prove Liability: An experienced attorney gathers solid evidence to show the other driver was impaired.
- To Navigate Complex Insurance Laws: Florida’s no-fault system can be confusing without legal help.
- To Maximize Your Compensation: Attorneys understand how to pursue full damages, including emotional suffering.
- To Represent You in Court: If negotiations fail, a lawyer can take your case to trial effectively.
- To Handle Aggressive Insurance Companies: Let a skilled Florida drunk driving accident lawyer stand up for your rights.
Compensation For Injuries From Your Accident
- Medical Bills: Covers hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing care. These expenses can quickly add up, and a Florida drunk driving accident lawyer can help ensure every cost is accounted for.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may claim past and future earnings. This includes not only missed paychecks but also reduced earning capacity if you’re unable to return to the same job.
- Pain and Suffering: Emotional trauma and physical pain are factored into your compensation. Courts recognize the toll such trauma can take on your mental health, relationships, and daily life.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for vehicle repair or replacement due to the crash. This also includes the value of any personal items damaged in the accident, such as phones or laptops.
- Punitive Damages: In extreme cases, courts may award extra damages to punish reckless behavior. These are intended to deter similar conduct in the future and send a strong message about the consequences of drunk driving.
Know Your Rights With Our Florida Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys
You have legal rights when injured by an intoxicated driver, and our team at Abercrombie, P.A. is here to protect them. Our Florida drunk driving accident attorneys will handle your case with the seriousness it deserves, building a strategy tailored to your situation. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurers, we’ll be with you at every step.
Let us help you reclaim your life because you deserve justice and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When Should I Contact An Attorney After The Accident?
- Immediately After Medical Care: Once your health is stable, legal representation should be your next step.
- Before Speaking to Insurance Adjusters: Insurers may try to reduce your claim, but your drunk driving attorney in Florida will protect your interests.
Is a Drunk Driver Always at Fault for a DUI Accident?
Not always, but usually. If the other driver’s impairment contributed to the accident, they are typically considered at fault. However, comparative negligence may apply in some cases where other factors contributed to the crash.
Who Can Be Held Responsible For Drunk Driving Accidents?
- The Drunk Driver: Most commonly held liable for the accident and damages.
- The Bar or Restaurant (Dram Shop Law): If they overserved the driver knowingly, they may share liability.
- Vehicle Owners: If someone knowingly lent their car to an intoxicated driver.
Legal Options For Drunk Driving Accident Victims
- Filing a Personal Injury Claim: Seek compensation for injuries, expenses, and emotional trauma.
- Pursuing a Civil Lawsuit: If a settlement isn’t reached, you can sue the driver in court.
- Claiming Insurance Benefits: You may receive limited benefits through Florida’s no-fault insurance law.
Proceeding After Contacting Our Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys in Florida
- Case Evaluation: We review your case to determine the best legal path forward.
- Evidence Collection: Our team gathers crash reports, BAC results, and eyewitness statements.
- Negotiation or Litigation: We aim for a fair settlement but are ready to go to trial if needed.
- Ongoing Support: Our team stays in touch, updating you at every critical milestone.
Consequences and Liability in Drunk Driving Accidents
- Criminal Charges for the Driver: DUI offenders may face fines, jail time, or license suspension.
- Civil Liability for Damages: Victims can sue for both physical and emotional losses.
- Insurance Complications: Insurers often attempt to minimize payouts in DUI cases.
Long-Term Injuries and Costs: Victims may suffer from lifelong conditions needing continued care.
Get The Legal Help You Deserve
Schedule a free consultation with our experienced attorneys. Your case matters—let’s discuss your options today.
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1950 Lee Road, Suite 222, Winter Park, FL 32789
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56 4th Street NW, Suite 101, Winter Haven, FL 33880
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