(Newswire.net — July 26, 2023) — Car accidents are prevalent on Florida’s busy roads. Unfortunately, many of those accidents are caused by negligent people who drive while drunk.
Impaired drivers have a slower reaction time, making it harder for them to react in emergency situations. The criminal justice system has harsh penalties for those who get behind the wheel while intoxicated, but victims and their families are often left with a heavy financial burden along with their injuries.
It’s sadly something that Ft. Lauderdale car accident lawyers see all of the time. If you or a loved one were injured by a drunk driver, you should consult an attorney to discuss your case immediately.
What Are the Penalties for Florida Drunk Drivers?
Florida is a state that is extremely tough on drunk drivers. If convicted, a drunk driver will have it on their record for 75 years. Drunk drivers also face jail time, heavy fines, loss of their driver’s license, community service, and probation for a first-time offense. The penalties become even steeper for subsequent offenses.
Anyone who drives drunk can face civil liability, which could include punitive damages for reckless behavior on the road. The circumstances vary by case, but offenders can end up with a first-degree DUI misdemeanor charge, which is typically punishable with a fine of up to $1,000 and a year in prison.
Drunk drivers that cause serious bodily injury may receive a third-degree felony. This charge comes with penalties, including a fine of up to $5,000 and 5 years in prison.
Seeking Damages Against Drunk Drivers
If you were in an accident caused by a drunk driver, you could seek compensatory damages to get the financial recovery you need for your expenses related to the accident. This would include medical bills, property damage, lost wages, mental anguish, and pain and suffering, to name a few.
Punitive damages aren’t always awarded in lawsuits; however, in cases involving DUI, they tend to be granted when the driver can be proven guilty of gross negligence. A fatal injury resulting in a wrongful death case is usually when punitive damages are awarded.
However, the drunk driver may not be the only party that you can pursue for compensation. Liability may extend to whoever provided the alcohol. Since a drunk driver will be facing major fines from the state, you can seek further compensation from a third party, such as a bar or restaurant that served them alcohol if they already appeared to be intoxicated.
Florida law allows victims to seek damages from other entities when drunk driving leads to injuries. The best way to successfully recover damages from the defendant and determine their liability is to work with an experienced attorney. Trying to file a claim on your own may result in a lower settlement that doesn’t cover all your damages.
Fortunately, most personal injury attorneys offer free initial case evaluations. This gives you a chance to obtain valuable legal advice and determine the best course of action when seeking justice.