Call Us Today Drunk driving collisions can be devastating. If you’ve been hurt in one, a Fort Myers car accident lawyer can help you pursue damages.
Drunk driving crashes often lead to serious physical, emotional, and financial hardship. When these incidents occur, the at-fault driver deserves to be held accountable.
Viles & Beckman has recovered over $100 million for our clients. If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver, a Fort Myers drunk driving accident lawyer from our team can help you file a claim and pursue the compensation you deserve.
How Can a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Help?
If you’ve been in a crash caused by a drunk driver, a lawyer can help by:
- Investigating the incident: A lawyer can collect evidence like police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage to establish fault.
- Calculating damages: A lawyer can assess the full extent of your losses, including medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma.
- Negotiating with insurance companies: A lawyer can ensure you receive a fair settlement by negotiating with insurers.
- Representing you in court: If negotiations fail, a lawyer can fight for your rights in court and pursue the compensation you deserve.
A Fort Myers personal injury lawyer can handle your case so you can focus on your recovery.
Expect More, Receive More: Legal Support That Feels Like Family
How Much Compensation Can I Recover After a Drunk Driving Accident?
The value of drunk driving accident settlements varies from case to case. The amount you’ll be able to recover will depend on factors like:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
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What Damages Can I Claim After a Drunk Driving Accident?
Victims of drunk driving collisions can claim various damages to cover their losses, including:
- Medical expenses: You can receive compensation for hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and ongoing treatment.
- Rehabilitation costs: You can be reimbursed for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other recovery services.
- Lost wages and earning capacity: You can recover income lost during your recovery and any future income you might lose due to your injuries.
- Property damage: You can receive payment for the repair or replacement of your vehicle and other personal property.
- Pain and suffering: You can be compensated for the physical and emotional distress caused by the crash.
- Emotional distress: You can receive compensation for the crash’s psychological impact.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: You can receive damages for the diminished ability to enjoy daily activities and hobbies.
- Punitive damages: Additional damages may be awarded to penalize the drunk driver for their reckless behavior.
A drunk driving accident attorney in Fort Myers can work to maximize your compensation.
Click To ContactDealing With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. A lawyer can:
- Handle communications with insurance adjusters
- Counter lowball settlement offers
- Use evidence to build a strong case that supports your claim
Never agree to a settlement without consulting an attorney, as it may not cover your losses in full.
How Is Liability Determined After a Drunk Driving Accident in Florida?
In Florida, liability is determined based on evidence showing the at-fault driver’s negligence. Key elements include:
- Duty of Care: Drivers must operate vehicles responsibly to prevent harm to others.
- Breach of Duty: Driving under the influence violates this duty.
- Causation: The drunk driver’s actions directly caused the collision and your injuries.
- Damages: The crash resulted in well-documented losses.
Evidence like police reports, toxicology results, and eyewitness accounts can help prove liability.
Can I Sue if I Was Partially at Fault?
Yes, you can still sue if you were partially at fault for a crash in Florida. Our state follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning that if you were partially at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you were 20% at fault and awarded $100,000, you would receive $80,000. A drunk driving accident lawyer in Fort Myers can work to minimize your assigned fault percentage and maximize your compensation.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Drunk Driving Accident Lawsuit in Florida?
For most drunk driving accident cases in Florida, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. If you miss this deadline, you could forfeit your right to seek compensation.
A car accident attorney can make sure your claim is filed promptly.
Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Accident
If you’ve been involved in a drunk driving crash, there are certain steps you should take to protect your rights and begin developing a strong case. Those steps are:
- Call 911: Report the accident to the police.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the vehicles, injuries, and road conditions.
- Exchange information: Gather contact details from the other driver and any witnesses present at the scene.
- Seek medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor, consult a doctor to document your condition.
- Notify your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurer, but stick to the facts and avoid saying anything that could be interpreted as an admission of fault.
- Avoid discussing fault: No matter who you’re talking to, do not admit fault or make statements that could be used against you later.
- Contact an attorney: Call a Fort Myers drunk driving accident lawyer to discuss your case and commence the legal process.
Contact a Fort Myers Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Today
Navigating the aftermath of a drunk driving accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do so alone. A Fort Myers drunk driving accident attorney from Viles & Beckman can provide the expertise and support you need to secure fair compensation.
If you’ve been injured in a drunk driving accident, don’t wait to take action. Schedule a free consultation today to begin pursuing justice.
