Florida Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer: What You Need to Know

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Florida drunk driving accident lawyers! Drunk driving accidents can be devastating, resulting in severe injuries or even fatalities. If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident in Florida, you need an experienced lawyer on your side to help you navigate the legal process. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Florida drunk driving accident lawyers, including their advantages and disadvantages, frequently asked questions, and more.

Introduction

Drunk driving accidents are a serious problem in Florida, where alcohol-related crashes account for a significant portion of all traffic fatalities. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Florida ranks among the top states in the nation for drunk driving fatalities. If you or a loved one has been involved in a drunk driving accident, it’s important to know your legal rights and options.

A Florida drunk driving accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation for your injuries and damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. But not all lawyers are created equal. In this guide, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of hiring a Florida drunk driving accident lawyer, as well as answer some frequently asked questions.

Florida Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer: Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

1. Experience: A Florida drunk driving accident lawyer has experience dealing with these types of cases and knows how to navigate the legal system to get you the compensation you deserve.

2. Knowledge of the law: Florida has a complex legal system, and a lawyer who specializes in drunk driving accidents will have extensive knowledge of the laws and regulations surrounding these cases.

3. Negotiation skills: A good lawyer knows how to negotiate with insurance companies and other parties involved in the case to get you the best possible settlement.

4. Access to resources: A lawyer has access to resources like expert witnesses and accident reconstruction specialists that can strengthen your case.

5. Peace of mind: Knowing that you have a skilled and experienced lawyer on your side can provide peace of mind during a difficult and stressful time.

Disadvantages

1. Cost: Hiring a Florida drunk driving accident lawyer can be expensive, and you may end up paying a large portion of your settlement in legal fees.

2. Time-consuming: Pursuing a legal case can be a lengthy process, and you may have to wait months or even years for a resolution.

3. No guarantee of success: There is no guarantee that a lawyer will be able to win your case or get you the compensation you deserve.

4. Emotional toll: Reliving the traumatic experience of a drunk driving accident can be emotionally taxing, and pursuing a legal case can add to that stress.

5. Possible negative outcomes: In some cases, hiring a lawyer can actually result in a lower settlement than if you had negotiated with the insurance company directly.

Florida Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer: Complete Information Table

Name	Location	Experience	Specialization	Cost
John Smith	Miami	10 years	Drunk driving accidents	Contingency fee
Jane Doe	Tampa	5 years	Personal injury	Hourly rate
Mark Johnson	Orlando	15 years	Drunk driving accidents	Contingency fee

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does it cost to hire a Florida drunk driving accident lawyer?

The cost of hiring a lawyer varies depending on the individual lawyer and the complexity of your case. Some lawyers charge an hourly rate, while others work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case.

2. What kind of damages can I recover in a drunk driving accident case?

You may be able to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses. A lawyer can help you determine what damages you may be entitled to.

3. What if the drunk driver doesn’t have insurance?

If the drunk driver doesn’t have insurance, you may still be able to recover damages through your own uninsured motorist coverage.

4. How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a drunk driving accident?

In Florida, you have four years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s important to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are protected.

5. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

In Florida, the law of comparative negligence applies, meaning that the damages you recover will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault for the accident and your damages were $100,000, you would only be able to recover $80,000.

6. Will my case go to trial?

Not all cases go to trial. Many can be settled out of court through negotiation or mediation. However, if a settlement cannot be reached, your case may go to trial.

7. How long will my case take?

The length of your case will depend on a variety of factors, including the complexity of the case, the number of parties involved, and whether a settlement can be reached. Some cases can be resolved in a matter of months, while others may take several years.

8. Can I handle my own case without a lawyer?

You are not required to hire a lawyer to handle your case, but it is recommended. A lawyer can provide valuable guidance and help ensure that your rights and interests are protected throughout the legal process.

9. What if the drunk driver was under 21?

In Florida, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to drink alcohol. If a drunk driver under 21 causes an accident, they may face criminal charges as well as civil liability for any damages they cause.

10. Can I sue the establishment that served the drunk driver?

In some cases, you may be able to sue the establishment that served the drunk driver if they served them alcohol while they were already intoxicated. This is known as dram shop liability.

11. What if the drunk driver was on the job at the time of the accident?

If the drunk driver was on the job at the time of the accident, their employer may also be liable for any damages they cause. This is known as vicarious liability.

12. What should I do if I’ve been involved in a drunk driving accident?

If you’ve been involved in a drunk driving accident, seek medical attention immediately and contact the police. It’s also important to gather as much evidence as possible, including photos of the scene, contact information for witnesses, and any other relevant information.

13. How can I find the right Florida drunk driving accident lawyer?

Research potential lawyers online, read reviews and testimonials, and schedule consultations with the ones that seem like a good fit for your case. It’s important to find a lawyer who has experience dealing with these types of cases and who you feel comfortable working with.

Conclusion

A drunk driving accident can be a life-changing event, but with the help of a skilled Florida drunk driving accident lawyer, you can pursue the compensation you deserve. Remember to choose a lawyer with experience and knowledge of Florida’s legal system, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek a second opinion. We hope this guide has been helpful in providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your case.

Don’t wait to take action – contact a Florida drunk driving accident lawyer today to start pursuing the justice and compensation you deserve.

Closing or Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Consult with a licensed attorney to discuss the specific details of your case.

The information contained in this guide is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. We make no guarantees or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of the information provided.

By using this guide, you agree to hold the authors and publishers harmless from any and all liability arising from your use of this guide.