Being involved in an accident with a drunk driver is a terrifying and life-altering experience. Beyond the physical injuries, victims often face emotional trauma, mounting medical bills, and lost wages due to time away from work. If you or a loved one has been struck by a drunk driver in Florida, you may be wondering whether you can recover compensation for your losses. The good news is that Florida law allows victims to seek damages in these situations. Continue reading and reach out to a skilled Jacksonville personal injury lawyer from Ansbacher Law to learn more. Here are some of the questions you may have:
Who Is Liable for a Drunk Driving Accident in Florida?
When a person chooses to get behind the wheel while intoxicated, they are acting negligently. Florida law holds drunk drivers responsible for the harm they cause. If you were injured in a crash caused by an impaired driver, you have the right to pursue a personal injury claim against them.
In most cases, the intoxicated driver is the primary liable party. However, liability may extend beyond them. Florida has dram shop laws, which may hold a bar, restaurant, or another establishment accountable if they knowingly served alcohol to a minor or someone who was “habitually addicted” to alcohol, and that person later caused an accident. While these cases can be more complex, an experienced personal injury attorney can help determine whether third-party liability applies.
What Types of Compensation Can I Recover After Being Hit By a Drunk Driver?
If you were hit by a drunk driver, you may be entitled to economic and non-economic damages. These damages are meant to compensate you for the various ways the accident has affected your life.
Economic damages cover tangible financial losses, such as:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
Non-economic damages address more personal losses, including:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
In some cases, Florida courts may also award punitive damages. Unlike economic and non-economic damages, which are meant to compensate the victim, punitive damages are designed to punish the drunk driver for their reckless behavior and deter others from making similar choices. While not awarded in every case, they may be available if the driver’s conduct was especially egregious.
How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Help?
Navigating a personal injury claim after a drunk driving accident can be overwhelming, especially while trying to recover from your injuries. A skilled attorney can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and build a strong case to maximize your compensation.
Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or shift blame to reduce their payout. Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that if you are found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation could be reduced. However, a lawyer can counter these tactics and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk driver in Florida, don’t wait to seek legal help. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can provide guidance, protect your rights, and help you secure the compensation you need to move forward.
