What to do if you are hit by a drunk driver
Unfortunately in the Tampa Bay area, the risk of being hit by a drunk driver is higher than many other places in the U.S.
Protect yourself from drunk driver injuries
While Tampa Bay may be one of the best places for craft beer. Florida ranks 3rd in drunk driving fatalities in the U.S. Florida ranks 1st in alcohol related boating accidents in the US. The Tampa Bay area is also in the news frequently for alcohol related wrong-way driver incidents.
For DUI citations in the Tampa Bay area, just look at some of the numbers:
Hillsborough County: 4,101
Pinellas County: 3,336
Manatee County: 876
Sarasota County: 942
A lack of public transit options in the Tampa Bay region contributes to more drunk drivers on the road. In addition, poor land use with urban sprawl that forces a dependency on cars to access nightlife in the urban core is also a large contributing factor.
While the above issues will take some time to remedy, you should certainly know your options if you are involved in an accident with an intoxicated driver.
Know your options if you are hit by a drunk driver
Criminal Proceedings for Drunk Drivers
Whether a boat accident, bicycle accident, pedestrian accident, or car accident involving a drunk driver – upon a DUI conviction is a criminal offense, and the drunk driver will face criminal prosecution. As a victim of a drunk driver, you are also a witness to a crime and may be asked to appear in court to testify. This process is often difficult and stressful while dealing with the aftermath of an accident, especially when you are injured. The guidance of a compassionate law firm is absolutely helpful as a victim of a criminal DUI accident.
As with all personal injury claims, the severity of damages in the case of a drunk driver accident will determine your compensation.
Death Caused by a Drunk Driver – Filing a Wrongful Death Civil Suit
In the highly emotional and stressful circumstance of a death caused by the negligence of a drunk driver, a wrongful death civil lawsuit may be filed by a family member on behalf of a loved one’s estate.
As a victim of a criminal case, you may ask to seek punitive damages in addition to compensatory damages.
How No-Fault Insurance laws have an effect on Drunk Driving Cases
Since Florida is a no-fault state, your insurance company is liable for the first $10,000, however if you are involved in any accident involving a drunk driver you should contact a personal injury attorney right away and go over all of the details of your case. There are many factors in drunk driving accidents that need to be examined by an experienced attorney to determine your options for compensation.
Civil Litigation in a Drunk Driving Incident
A civil lawsuit against the drunk driver may be the only way to be fully compensated for medical expenses, loss of work, and the emotional stress of pain and suffering. At Butler and Boyd, we have over 43 years of experience in civil personal injury cases throughout the Tampa Bay Area.
Call us for a free consultation. At Butler and Boyd, the difference is in the details. 813 229 3232.