Car Accidents Caused by Drunk Drivers
Dedicated Tampa Attorneys Helping Accident and Injury Victims in Florida Statewide
Drunk driving is a problem that simply won’t go away, no matter how many laws we enact, how zealous law enforcement is, or how many public awareness campaigns get launched. Although drinking and driving isn’t the leading cause of crashes in Florida, it still accounts for thousands of accidents every year, ending in hundreds of injuries and deaths. Perhaps what makes these accidents so devastating to bear is the fact that they are entirely preventable; they happen because someone made the bad choice to drink and drive.
At Chadwick & Chadwick, we understand the emotional impact of drunk driving car accidents on victims and families along with the financial consequences of a physically painful and debilitating crash. Our dedicated team is committed to helping clients throughout Florida navigate the complexities of personal injury law after crashes involving intoxicated motorists. If you have been hurt in a collision with a drunk driver, or a drunk driver caused the loss of a loved one in a fatal crash, call our office to see how we can help you find justice, compensation, and a path forward following such a harmful and destructive event.
Florida’s DUI Laws and Your Claim
Florida’s strict DUI (Driving Under the Influence) laws serve as a crucial component in personal injury claims involving drunk driving. A conviction for DUI can substantially bolster a victim’s case, providing clear evidence of the driver’s negligence. However, it’s important to note that a successful personal injury claim can still proceed even without a DUI conviction. Criminal cases have to be proven “beyond a reasonable doubt,” while civil cases – such as personal injury lawsuits – must be proven by “a preponderance of the evidence.” While a DUI conviction might make the driver “per se” negligent in a drunk driving car accident, any evidence of the driver’s intoxication or impairment can be helpful in holding them accountable, regardless of whether they were arrested, charged or convicted of DUI.
Legal Recourse for Car Crash Victims
Victims of car accidents caused by drunk drivers have the right to seek compensation for their losses and suffering. Florida law permits the pursuit of damages for various losses, including:
- Medical expenses: Covering current and future medical treatment.
- Lost wages: Compensation for income lost due to injury-related work absences.
- Pain and suffering: Addressing the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property damage: Covering the costs of vehicle repairs or replacement.
As with any car accident, tort damages after a drunk driving car accident are only recoverable by people who sustained a serious or permanent injury as defined in the law. Otherwise, injury victims are limited to the benefits provided by their no-fault insurance coverage. At Chadwick & Chadwick, we’ll help you make the case for a serious injury, where applicable, and work to see that you are fully compensated for your damages and losses under Florida law.
Establishing liability in drunk driving accidents requires demonstrating that the intoxicated driver’s negligence directly caused the accident and resulting injuries. Our experienced attorneys at Chadwick & Chadwick adeptly handle the gathering of necessary evidence, which may include police reports, witness statements, and breathalyzer test results. We work with experts as needed to prepare a solid case proving the other party’s liability and the full extent of damages caused. We understand that every case is unique, and we provide personalized legal strategies tailored to your specific situation. Our attorneys possess extensive knowledge of Florida’s traffic and personal injury laws, including Florida DUI laws and how they may impact your claim. We tirelessly work to secure the maximum compensation for our clients. Importantly, our contingency fee structure means you pay no attorney fees unless we successfully recover compensation on your behalf.
Get the Legal Support You Deserve
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident caused by a drunk driver in Tampa or anywhere in Florida, Chadwick & Chadwick is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and understand your legal options. We stand ready to support you in your pursuit of justice and fair compensation.
