Every 39 minutes, someone in the U.S. dies in a drunk driving accident. Daily, hundreds of people across the United States are injured due to drivers who enter our roadways while impaired. Alarmingly, many of these accidents take place right here in Florida
If you or a loved one has been a victim of an accident with a drunk driver, you must act quickly to protect your rights. Our drunk driving car accident lawyer at Sternberg | Forsythe, P.A. can help you pursue legal action against the responsible party and get justice.
The Consequences of Drunk Driving
Drunk driving remains a significant issue in Florida. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, there were over 5,000 alcohol-confirmed crashes in 2020 alone. These accidents resulted in more than 400 fatalities and thousands of injuries.
Emotional and Financial Impact
The aftermath of a drunk driving accident extends far beyond physical injuries. Victims often experience emotional trauma, including anxiety and PTSD. Financially, the costs can be overwhelming, from medical bills to lost wages. Understanding these impacts can help you see why specialized legal assistance is essential.
Why Choose Us?
Experience matters when dealing with the complexities of a drunk driving case. Our compassionate legal team at Sternberg | Forsythe, P.A. boasts a high success rate in handling such cases.
Our extensive experience ensures that we know the ins and outs of the legal system, significantly increasing your chances of a favorable outcome. some of the reasons why you should select our drunk driving car accident lawyer include our:
Client-Centered Approach
Your case isn’t just another file to us. We pride ourselves on offering personalized client service and support. From the moment you contact us, we dedicate time to listen and work closely with you to understand your unique needs and circumstances. This client-centered approach allows us to tailor our legal strategies to your situation, ensuring that you feel supported and informed throughout the process. This personalized attention sets us apart from other firms.
Knowledge of Local Laws
Navigating Florida’s legal system requires a deep understanding of local and state laws related to drunk driving. Our firm is well-versed in these regulations, from the intricacies of DUI charges to the specific procedural nuances of Florida courts.
Our extensive experience and continuous education in these areas ensure you receive the most effective representation possible. We stay updated on any changes in the law to provide you with the best defense strategy, giving you peace of mind knowing that your case is in capable hands.
Services Our Drunk Driving Car Accident Lawyer Provides
Our drunk driving car accident lawyer at Sternberg | Forsythe, P.A. is committed to providing fearless legal representation for all our clients. Some of the ways that we can help you throughout the legal process include:
Investigation
A thorough investigation is the backbone of any strong legal case. We gather all necessary evidence, from police reports to eyewitness accounts, ensuring no detail is overlooked.
Negotiation
Our negotiation skills are second to none. We work tirelessly to reach a fair settlement with insurance companies, aiming for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Litigation
Should your case go to court, our experienced litigators are prepared to fight for your rights. Our track record speaks for itself, with numerous successful outcomes in court.
Medical Referrals
We understand that your health is a priority. Our firm offers referrals to trusted medical professionals specializing in treating accident-related injuries, ensuring you get the care you need.
Communication
Clear and consistent communication is key. We keep you updated at every stage of your case, ensuring you are fully informed and involved in the decision-making process.
Liable Parties in Drunk Driving Accidents in Florida
Drunk driving accidents can take place for a variety of reasons. The specific cause of the accident will help determine who is liable for the resulting damages. Some potentially liable parties include:
The Drunk Driver
The driver who caused the accident is, of course, the primary liable party. Holding them accountable is crucial for your recovery and the safety of others.
Vehicle Owners
If the owner of the vehicle is not the person driving, they may also be held liable in some cases. This is particularly true if they knew that the driver was intoxicated.
Bars and Restaurants (Dram Shop Liability)
Under Florida’s Dram Shop laws, establishments that served alcohol to the intoxicated driver may also be held responsible. This can be a vital avenue for additional compensation.
Social Hosts
If the driver was served alcohol at a social gathering, the host might bear some liability. This is particularly relevant in cases involving underage drinking.
Employers (If the Driver Was on the Job)
If the drunk driver was working during the accident, their employer might be liable. This is often the case for delivery drivers and other on-the-road employees.
Car Manufacturers (In Case of Vehicle Defects)
In rare instances, a vehicle defect may have contributed to the accident. Holding the manufacturer accountable can provide another source of compensation.
Type of Compensation Available to Injury Victims
After being injured in a drunk driving accident, you can seek compensation for various damages. These include:
Medical Bills
You can claim all medical expenses related to the accident, including emergency room visits, surgeries, and ongoing treatments.
Long-Term Care
Compensation for severe injuries requiring long-term care can cover home healthcare services, rehabilitation, and more.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is often necessary for recovery. The costs for these services can also be included in your compensation claim.
Lost Wages
You can claim lost wages if you miss work due to your injuries. This includes both immediate and future earnings you may lose.
Lost Future Earnings
Severe injuries may impact your ability to work in the long term. Compensation for lost future earnings can provide financial stability.
Pain and Suffering
Beyond financial losses, your emotional and physical pain should also be compensated. This includes anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Wrongful Death
In tragic cases where a loved one is lost, compensation can cover funeral expenses and provide financial support to surviving family members.
Common Types of Injuries in Drunk Driving Accident Cases
Drunk driving accidents can result in severe injuries to those involved. common injuries include:
- Bruises and Swelling: While seemingly minor, bruises and swelling can indicate more serious internal injuries and should not be overlooked.
- Broken Bones: Fractures are common in car accidents and can lead to long-term complications if not properly treated.
- Lacerations: Deep cuts and lacerations can result in significant blood loss and permanent scarring, requiring immediate medical attention.
- Internal Injuries: Internal injuries are often life-threatening and require prompt medical intervention to avoid long-term damage.
- Neck and Shoulder Injuries: Whiplash and other neck injuries are common in car accidents, leading to chronic pain and mobility issues.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, drastically altering the victim’s quality of life.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries: TBIs are among the most severe injuries, causing cognitive impairments, personality changes, and long-term disability.
Contact Our Drunk Driving Car Accident Lawyer
Navigating the aftermath of a drunk driving accident is incredibly challenging. However, with the right legal support, you can secure the compensation you deserve and focus on your recovery.
Sternberg | Forsythe, P.A. is committed to guiding you through this process with fearlessness, compassion, and relentless advocacy. If you or a loved one has been affected, don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule a free consultation with our dedicated team. Let’s take the first step toward justice and healing together.