Boca Raton Drunk Driving Accident Attorney

Fighting For Those Who Have Been Injured By Drunk Drivers in Florida

Drunk driving is a serious issue in Florida, and it is something that can have a profound impact on people's lives. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) reports that 13,384 people lost their lives in US drunk driving-related crashes in 2021.

When a drunk driver causes an accident, the results can be devastating. People are often left with catastrophic injuries, medical bills that are overwhelming, and a loss of their livelihood.

At Your Damage Lawyer, PLLC, we believe that the consequences of drunk driving should be severe enough to act as a deterrent to others. Our Boca Raton drunk driving accident lawyer is prepared to fight for you and your rights. We can help you recover the compensation you need to move forward following a drunk driving accident.

To learn more about your legal rights, call (561) 564-0233 or submit an online case evaluation form to get started with our drunk driving accident lawyer in Boca Baton.

What Is Considered "Drunk Driving" in Florida

Florida has a "zero tolerance" policy when it comes to drunk driving. This means that any driver who is found to have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is in violation of the law. In some cases, when the driver is below the legal limit but appears to be impaired, the police officer has the right to arrest them for driving under the influence (DUI) and take them to a nearby station for further evaluation.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a drunk driving accident in Boca Raton, Florida, you need a dedicated and experienced attorney on your side. At Your Damage Lawyer, PLLC, we understand the trauma and devastation that follows such an accident. A Drunk Driving Accident Attorney will help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Injuries Commonly Suffered in Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk driving accidents often result in severe injuries due to the high impact and lack of driver control. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): The force of a collision can lead to head injuries, causing traumatic brain injuries with long-term consequences.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: High-impact crashes may result in spinal cord injuries, leading to paralysis or other serious impairments.
• Broken Bones: The force of a collision can cause fractures and breaks, often requiring extensive medical treatment.
• Internal Injuries: The impact of a drunk driving accident can cause internal injuries, which may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries are common in rear-end collisions and can cause long-lasting pain and discomfort.

Parties Liable for Injuries According to Florida Law

Florida law allows for various parties to be held liable for injuries in drunk driving accidents, including:

• Intoxicated Drivers: Drivers who operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol are subject to criminal charges and can be held civilly liable for the harm they cause.
• Establishments Overserving Alcohol: Bars, restaurants, and other establishments that serve alcohol can be held liable if they overserve a patron who later causes a drunk driving accident.
• Social Hosts: Individuals hosting social events may be held responsible if they provide alcohol to a guest who causes a drunk driving accident.

What Damages Could be Recovered in a Drunk Driving Accident Claim? 

Potential damages that could be recovered in a drunk driving accident may include:

• Compensation for Medical Expenses: In the aftermath of a drunk driving accident, the physical toll on victims can be immense. Severe injuries often lead to substantial medical bills, including emergency room visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
• Lost Wages and Diminished Earning Capacity: Victims of drunk driving accidents frequently face the harsh reality of being unable to work due to their injuries.
• Pain and Suffering: Beyond the tangible costs, victims often endure immense pain and suffering. The emotional toll of a drunk driving accident can be very overwhelming, impacting mental well-being and quality of life.
• Property Damage: In many drunk driving accidents, property damage is inevitable. Vehicles may be totaled or require extensive repairs.
• Punitive Damages: Drunk driving is not only a negligent act but also a willful disregard for the safety of others on the road. In certain instances, punitive damages may be sought to penalize the at-fault party and discourage similar manners in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Boca Raton Drunk Driving Accident Attorney

1. What should I do if I am involved in a drunk driving accident in Boca Raton?
If you're involved in a drunk driving accident, your first priority should be to seek medical attention, even if you don’t feel immediately injured. Once you are safe, gather evidence from the scene if possible—such as photos, witness contact information, and police reports. Contact a Boca Raton drunk driving accident attorney who can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.

2. How is drunk driving defined under Florida law?
In Florida, a driver is considered legally drunk if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. However, if a driver’s BAC is under the legal limit but they are still impaired, they can be arrested and charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI). The zero-tolerance policy in Florida allows for arrest even when BAC is below 0.08% if the driver exhibits signs of impairment.

3. What types of injuries are commonly sustained in drunk driving accidents?
Drunk driving accidents often result in serious injuries such as:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal Cord Injuries
• Broken Bones
• Internal Injuries
• Soft Tissue Injuries (whiplash, sprains, etc.) These injuries can require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, sometimes leading to long-term or permanent disabilities.

4. Can I recover damages from the drunk driver in a civil case?
Yes. In Florida, you can file a personal injury lawsuit against the drunk driver to seek damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and more. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the drunk driver and deter future incidents of DUI.

5. Can bars or restaurants be held liable for a drunk driving accident?
Yes, Florida's Dram Shop Laws hold bars, restaurants, and other establishments accountable if they overserve alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person who later causes an accident. If a business is found to be negligent in serving alcohol to an already intoxicated individual, they may be liable for damages in a drunk driving accident.

To learn more about your legal rights, call (561) 564-0233 or submit an online case evaluation form to get started with our drunk driving accident lawyer in Boca Baton.