You take every precaution when you get behind the wheel of a car. Regardless, a drunk driver slams their car into yours and leaves you with injuries. Following the incident, meet with a Collier County drunk driving accident lawyer to review your legal options.
Viles & Beckman is a personal injury law firm with more than 40 years of combined legal experience on staff. Let our Collier County car accident lawyers help you with your case. Contact us to get started.
Steps to Take If You Are Involved in a Drunk Driving Accident
Do not let a motorist off the hook if they choose to drive while intoxicated and cause an accident. Otherwise, this driver could blame you for this accident, or you can be held responsible for all associated losses. Take these steps to protect yourself in the moments after the accident:
- Notify the authorities. Call 911 to bring medical personnel to treat your injuries and police officers to collect information from you and others at the scene.
- Get evidence. Since this will be the only opportunity you have to do so, take photographs and videos of your injuries and the scene.
- Gather witness information. Connect with witnesses, and they could testify on your behalf if you sue a liable motorist for compensatory damages.
- Inform your insurance company. Tell your auto insurer about your accident and open a claim.
Within days of your accident, get legal help from a drunk driving accident lawyer serving Collier County. The team at Viles & Beckman will help you with the claims process that follows your accident. Request a consultation with our Collier County personal injury lawyers.
Expect More, Receive More: Legal Support That Feels Like Family
What to Expect If You File an Insurance Claim
As a “no-fault” state for car insurance, you can receive compensation for a drunk driving accident through your insurer, even if the other motorist is to blame. A Collier County drunk driving accident attorney can explain the role of car insurance in a car accident lawsuit. They will help you submit your claim for compensation to your insurance carrier.
Generally, an insurance company will investigate your claim and determine if it is valid. In the best-case scenario, your insurer gives you enough compensation for all of your accident-related losses. However, your insurer can dispute your claim.
Have a lawyer represent you in negotiations with your insurer. Your attorney will advocate for you and put you in a position to secure maximum compensation. If necessary, they can sue the party responsible for your accident for damages.
Collier County
Drunk Driving Accident
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(239) 334-3933
How a Collier County Drunk Driving Accident Lawsuit Works
A drunk driving accident attorney serving Collier County can explain what expenses are covered in a car accident settlement. If your insurance is insufficient or you want to pursue maximum compensation based on your economic and non-economic damages, you may want to move forward with a lawsuit. By doing so, you can recover damages for many reasons, including:
- Car repairs or replacement
- Lost income
- Medical bills
- Pain and suffering
In your lawsuit, you are responsible for the burden of proof. Your lawyer can use accident scene videos and photos, breathalyzer tests, medical records, and other proof in your case against an at-fault party. This evidence could help you prove you deserve 100% of the damages you are requesting.
Filing a Drunk Driving Wrongful Death Lawsuit
Sadly, a member of your family can die in a drunk driving accident. This is devastating for you and other surviving family members. With help from a lawyer, you can seek justice from the driver responsible for your loved one’s death.
An attorney approaches your case with empathy and care. They will provide insights into how a wrongful death is defined under Florida law. In addition, they will explain if you have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit.
As your wrongful death case moves forward, your lawyer assists you every step of the way. They handle your legal matters while you and your loved ones support one another during this challenging time. If you have legal concerns or questions, your attorney addresses them promptly.
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How Much Time Do You Have to Submit a Drunk Driving Accident Lawsuit?
According to Chapter 95, Section 11 of the 2024 Florida Statutes, you have two years to sue for damages based on a personal injury that occurs in an auto accident. In the same way, the statute of limitations for a wrongful death lawsuit is two years. After the window expires for you to file a lawsuit, you will be solely responsible for your accident-related losses.
Partner with a lawyer to request damages through a drunk driving accident lawsuit. Your attorney learns about your accident and determines who is liable. Next, they calculate your damages and file your lawsuit.
You could sue for damages and settle your lawsuit outside the courtroom. For instance, the defendant in your case believes you have a compelling case against them. This could lead the defendant to propose a fair settlement.
Work with Collier County Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers Who Deliver a 5-Star Client Experience
A drunk driving accident can change your life. As a victim, you want to hold an intoxicated driver accountable for their actions. Ask a Collier County personal injury attorney for assistance, and they will guide you through the legal process.
Viles & Beckman blends compassion with legal excellence. Our drunk driving accident attorneys value advocacy, integrity, and client success, and we will do everything within our power to assist you with your case. Schedule a consultation with our lawyers.
Call or text (239) 334-3933 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form