Call Us Today You drive safely, but unfortunately, another motorist chooses to operate their vehicle while intoxicated. In one of the worst-case scenarios, this driver slams their car into yours. Following the incident, discuss your legal options with a Charlotte County drunk driving accident lawyer.
With more than 40 years of combined legal experience on staff, Viles & Beckman understands the challenges that come with suing a drunk driver for damages. Let a car accident lawyer serving Charlotte County from our team represent you in your drunk driving accident lawsuit. Schedule a consultation with us.
What to Do if You Are Involved in a Drunk Driving Accident
Prioritize your health and well-being in the moments following your accident. Resist the urge to assign blame or shout or yell at the other driver and, instead, make sure everyone involved is OK. From here, use these tips to protect yourself and others from any further harm:
- Call for help. Dial 911, and police officers and medical professionals will arrive on the scene minutes later to assist you and anyone else who may be hurt.
- Receive medical attention. Have medical personnel evaluate and treat you and, if your injuries are severe, bring you to a hospital.
- Speak to the police. Give police officers information about what happened during your accident, and they can prepare a report detailing the incident.
- Get the other driver’s information. Request contact, insurance, and driver’s license information from this motorist since you will need it to sue them for damages.
- Notify your auto insurance company. Tell your insurer about your accident, and the business will investigate.
Days after your accident, get in touch with a drunk driving accident lawyer serving Charlotte County. Viles & Beckman has earned more than 500 five-star Google Reviews, and we will assist you with your case in any way we can. Request a consultation with a personal injury lawyer serving Charlotte County, FL, from our team.
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How a Drunk Driving Accident Claim Works
An intoxicated driver can face fines, jail time, and other penalties for their actions. If you get hurt in an intoxicated driving accident, you can recover damages for your losses. Initially, you can submit an auto insurance claim, which may allow you to get compensation based on the harm you have incurred.
Florida is a “no-fault” state for auto insurance. A drunk driver can be liable for your car accident, but your insurance company could cover your losses. However, your insurance policy may not provide adequate compensation for your losses, or your insurer can dispute your claim.
If either of these things happens, you risk missing out on your opportunity to get money for your accident-related losses. Alternatively, a Charlotte County drunk driving accident attorney will assist. They will calculate your damages and, if warranted, file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf.
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Damages You Can Recover in a Charlotte County Drunk Driving Accident Lawsuit
A drunk driving accident attorney serving Charlotte County will encourage you to ask for economic and non-economic damages. What you ultimately secure in damages depends on the severity of your car accident injuries and other factors relating to your case. Reasons why a judge or jury will award damages include:
- Car repairs or replacement
- Lost wages
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment
As they examine your damages, your attorney considers how your accident and injuries will impact you moving forward. For example, you suffer a serious brain injury in an intoxicated driving accident. Partner with a traumatic brain injury lawyer serving Charlotte County, and they will include your current and future lost income and similar losses in your damages request.
Click To ContactEvidence You Can Use in Your Case
Saying the other motorist involved in your accident was driving while intoxicated is not enough to secure damages. Evidence is necessary to prove a motorist was negligent and should be held responsible for an impaired driving accident. Proof you can use in your argument against a liable party includes:
- Photos and videos of the accident scene
- Police officer body or dash cam footage
- Medical records
- Field sobriety and breathalyzer test results
- Pay stubs
Work with your lawyer to gather a wealth of evidence. If you have an abundance of proof, you could get a settlement offer that meets your expectations. Your lawyer can explain what expenses are covered in a car accident settlement and address any other legal concerns or questions you have.
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How Much Time Do You Have to File a Drunk Driving Accident Lawsuit?
Florida has a statute of limitations of two years for personal injuries. If you are injured in an intoxicated driving accident, pursue damages immediately. By waiting, you could lose the right to ask the liable motorist for damages.
Submit an auto insurance claim as soon as you can after your accident. If you meet Florida’s insurance requirements, you may get compensation through a claim with your insurer. When you go through the insurance claims process, have a Charlotte County personal injury attorney represent you.
Your lawyer advocates for you and protects your best interests. They will negotiate with your insurance company and help you get compensation for your accident-related losses. Your attorney can also request damages from the driver responsible for your accident.
Our Charlotte County Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers Fight for You Like You Are Our Family
If a drunk driver chooses to get behind the wheel and causes an accident that leaves you injured, seek justice. Hold the motorist accountable for their actions. Get started by hiring a drunk driving accident lawyer in Charlotte County.
Viles & Beckman is a Charlotte County personal injury law firm that blends compassion with legal experience. Committed to justice, our lawyers prioritize your drunk driving accident case. Speak with our attorneys.
Call or text (239) 334-3933 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
