Each year, thousands of civilians become victims: injured and killed in a DUI accident in Florida. Just as all these accidents could have been preventable tragedies for other people, so they are, unfortunately, for an intoxicated soul determined to drive under the influence. This is the one who hurts others, devastates families, and pays very little compared to others.
Injury occurs, or a dear one gets hurt in an accident caused by drunk driving, and the next step is almost a complication. It may lead you to approach bankruptcy due to your mounting medical bills, lost wages, emotional trauma, and unending questions. Being informed immediately following such accident events could mean a lot in safeguarding your rights and recovering fair compensation.
Through this guide, we cover everything you need to learn about the whole process that follows after a DUI accident in Florida, the options available for victims, and how an expert attorney would help you through the complex process of law toward achieving justice.
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Understanding DUI Accidents in Florida
DUI accident Florida describes the use of a motor vehicle at a .08% or more blood-alcohol content or by use of any controlled substance or alcohol to control the mental or physical functioning capacity of the person.
DUI accidents tend to produce catastrophic injuries due to slow reaction times and alterations in judgment and awareness caused by the intoxication from alcohol.
Associated injuries with DUIs include:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Damage to the spinal cord or paralysis
- Fractures and broken bones
- Internal bleeding or damage to organs
- Disability or disfiguration
Due to these devastating effects, victims can pursue their claims against Florida law, allowing the victim a measure of justice and recovery.
What to Do Immediately After a DUI Accident in Florida?
When you’re injured by a drunk driver, how you act in the minutes and days after the incident will be critical to your own safety, and to the legal action you might take.
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Get Medical Attention Without Delay
- Get to your doctor as soon as possible! Symptoms such as signs of concussion or internal bleeding sometimes don’t show themselves for hours. Medical records are also key pieces of evidence in your claim.
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Call Law Enforcement
- With such serious accidents, it is important to have them reported to the police by Florida law. After doing so, officers will conduct sobriety tests, investigate, and arrest anyone impaired. Request a copy of the police report; it is one very important document for your case.
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Evidence Collection
- Gather as much evidence as possible, taking photos of the scene as well as damage to vehicles, and your injuries:
- Contact information for witnesses
- License plate numbers
- Insurance information for every involved party
- The more evidence you gather soon after the accident, the stronger your case.
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Do Not Discuss Fault
- Don’t apologize or admit fault at the scene, even if you think you may be partially responsible. An investigation should finalize the issue of liability.
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Call a DUI Accident Lawyer
- Every step must include consulting an attorney who specializes in criminal defense and DUI injury cases before making statements to insurance adjusters. Your lawyer will protect your rights and will handle dealings with the insurance companies and law enforcement.
Your Rights After a DUI Accident in Florida
Victims of drunk driving accidents in Florida have these avenues to seek justice and compensation with respect to the actions available against the drunk driver:
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Criminal Case (Against the Drunk Driver)
- Depending on the severity of the crash, the impaired driver has been charged with DUI, DUI with property damage, or DUI with serious bodily injury or manslaughter.
- Although it punishes the offender, the criminal process per se is not sufficient to confer an award to compensate for injuries; thus, the simultaneous civil action becomes all the more important.
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Civil Lawsuit (Personal Injury Claim)
- The civil suit can proceed against the drunk driver for the items stated in the civil suit:
- Medical expenditures
- Lost income or diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional anxiety
- Damages to property
- Supposedly, punitive damages to punish the drunk driver for the extremely irresponsible behavior might also be applicable, although the conduct by that driver was an extremely reckless one.
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Insurance Claims
- As for the insurance, Florida will go along the lines of no fault, meaning that recovery from Personal Injury Protection would apply to the first medical expenses and lost wages incurred, notwithstanding who is responsible for the incident. If serious or in excess of the PIP limits set by law, the claim shall then be made under the covered insurance of the alleged negligent driver.
In a hurry? Call +1727-6007-776 Now!
Why Choose Perl Law PLLC as Your DUI Accident Florida Lawyer?
In Florida, a DUI accident is more than just finding a bunch of names to call a lawyer. It can mean finding a caring team to help you recover and rebuild your life for your future. Our firm represents victims to prosecute drunk drivers, fight for justice through compensation, and keep the process fair for everyone.
Our Distinctions:
- Experience: Many years in DUI and criminal defense.
- Individual attention: Each case gets its own attention and strategy.
- Zealous representation: We believe firm measures must be undertaken to protect your rights.
- Established record: Successful endings in criminal and injury actions.
FAQs About DUI Accidents in Florida
1. What To Do If Struck by A Drunken Driver In Florida?
Call an ambulance and fire department and report the accident to the police; take necessary photographs and write accounts; contact a DUI accidents attorney like Perl Law PLLC to assist in securing your rights for compensation.
2. Can I Sue a Drunk Driver for All Damages?
Yes. You can file a personal injury case against a drunk driver for incurred medical bills, lost wages, pain, and emotional distress, as well as suffering.
3. What if the Drunk Driver Is Uninsured/Underinsured?
You could pursue your uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM). An attorney will assist you with this because they will direct you on how to find all possible paths to compensation.
4. How Long Do I Have to File a Claim Following a DUI Accident in Florida?
Generally, you have about two years, according to Florida law, with those two years commencing from the date of the accident, for filing a personal injury lawsuit (per 2023 law update).
5. How Will Perl Law Help Me After a DUI Accident in Florida?
Perl Law will investigate your case; negotiate with insurance companies; represent you in court; and maximize your compensation for the injuries and losses you have suffered because of the accident.
Bottom Line!
Getting into a DUI accident in Florida is very traumatic. It throws people into utter helplessness about what to expect going forward. But you don’t have to go through these challenges all by yourself. Perl Law PLLC will be right there fighting for your rights. We understand the emotional, financial, and physical costs that come with DUI accidents and will fight for justice in your name.
Our firm would be there to inform you of your rights in filing a case or tread the harsh avenues of both criminal and civil sides of a DUI case. Time is precious when it comes to making amends after an accident; do not waste it seeking help.
Contact us for a free consultation to see how our teams can aid in your rehabilitation, restoration, and leap forward.