Drunk Driving Car Accidents

Shockingly, every 48 minutes someone in the United States dies from a drunk driving car accident? That is 30 deaths a day and more than 10,000 deaths a year.

What makes these statistics even more shocking, is they do not include anyone that was injured in a drunk driving accident. Unfortunately, drunk driving and drunk driving injuries not just fatalities are a lot more common than many realize.

If you are an unfortunate victim of a drunk driving accident due to someone’s impairment and negligence you need to make sure you understand ALL your rights under the law and procure an accident injury lawyer. The car crash lawyers at Mickey Keenan Law firm in Tampa, FL will guide you through the complex legal system and be by your side every step of the way. It’s not your fault you were injured by a drunk driver; we explain the keys to these car accidents and making you whole again.

Drunk Driving Laws in Florida

Driving under the influence, or a DUI, is illegal. It means that someone is operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other mind-altering intoxicants. Almost all 50 states consider a blood alcohol content of 0.08 % or higher to be illegally impaired. This is usually detected through a Breathalyzer or a blood test.

Florida has strict drunk driving laws. This is in hopes to curb and enforce drinking and driving accidents as well as to protect the public. Florida also has what is called “implied consent” laws that require drivers to submit to chemical testing, which includes blood, breath, or urine testing, when they apply for a state’s driver’s license.

Drinking can cause a variety of negative effects on a driver’s ability, including:

• Reaction time
• Vision
• Spatial awareness
• Coordination
• Alertness

Operating a vehicle while under the influence greatly increases the likelihood of a car accident and serious injuries to you, any passengers, or any other vehicles that are in your path.

Common Injuries Sustained by Drunk Driving Accidents

There are many variables and factors that will influence what type of injuries may occur in a drunk driving accident. These can include: how fast both cars were going, what types of vehicles were involved in the accident, and whether the passengers were wearing seat belts at the time of the accident.

If you have been injured in a car accident by a drunk driver, it is imperative to seek medical attention immediately even if you feel okay. Most accident injuries do not occur right away; injuries can occur several hours later to several days and even weeks later. By seeking prompt medical attention, victims are able to document their injuries, which will help protect their legal rights and help when determining damages and compensation.

Most victims of drunk driving accidents experience these common injuries:

• Concussion
• Whiplash
• Broken bones
• Neck and back injuries
• Sprains, strains, and tears
• Skull fractures
• Injuries to the spinal cord

Related: Explaining Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Coverage

What Damages can be Recovered?

Some of the most common damages that you or a loved one can recover as a drunk driving car accident victim, are:

• Medical bills and expenses
• Property damage (damage to your car)
• Lost wages due to being out of work for injuries
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Cost of living with a disability
• Wrongful death, if applicable

In Florida, accident victims have four years from the date of the accident to file a claim. But really, you should contact an attorney as soon as possible. The more time that goes by the harder it will be to remember the exact details, prove your injuries were related to the accident, find documentation of medical bills, etc.

You should never try to represent yourself or have anyone that is not an accident injury lawyer represent you. The Florida legal system can be complex and hard to navigate on your own. To ensure you receive the maximum amount of compensation for your damages, it is best to have a reputable accident injury lawyer by your side. At our law firm, we treat you like family. Call us today to discuss your drunk driving injury case.

Representation and Compensation You Deserve

Being a victim of a drunk driving car accident is frustrating as well as unfair. You are impacted in many ways, and not just from the car accident itself. You are also hit with medical bills, car repair bills, potentially missed wages, and insurance demands to name a few. You may be the loved one reading this because your friend or family member is just gone.

You should have never been in this situation to begin. Do not settle for anything except the best representation and maximum compensation. At Mickey Keenan, P.A. we understand that a drunk driver’s negligence and impairment are not acceptable. Our Tampa, FL car accident injury lawyers will be there to guide you through the entire legal process and fight for your rights.

We are committed to making you whole again and you can trust we will work hard to win the best settlement in your injury case. Call us today at 813-871-1300 to schedule your free consultation with our veteran car injury attorneys.