Drunk Driving And The Law
Michael Babboni
Personal Injury
Losing a loved one or watching them struggle to recover after an car accident is already painful. When the accident is caused by a drunk driver, it can be even more frustrating. If you or your loved one is injured or killed by a drunk driver, a civil suit may be your best option in order to heal and receive compensation for your injuries.How Are Drunk Driver Victims Different From Other Accident Victims?
When a drunk driver is involved, many issues come into play. Often those who are caught drunk driving will result in criminal proceedings in order to protect the public from future harm by acting reckless. A drunk driver may face criminal prosecution even if there was no resulting accident or injury from their drinking and driving.
A drunk driver may also have a civil suit against them as well. If the drunk driver causes an accident that results in the injury or death of another, a civil suit may be filed by the victim or the victim's next of kin. If the drunk driver does not have proper insurance or can not otherwise pay for the injuries they caused, there may be other financial issues to consider.
How Do Florida's No-Fault Laws Come Into Play?
Florida is well known for having no-fault laws in place. The no-fault laws have an effect on your ability to file a civil suit against a drunk driver. Unlike other states, drunk drivers in no-fault states are not automatically subjected to civil liability. If the damages are limited to property damage and minor injuries, you may have to file a claim with your own insurance company rather than taking the drunk driver to court for liability. However, if your injuries are severe enough than you may be able to take the drunk driver to court directly.
Why Should You Seek Out Financial Compensation After An Accident?
After an accident, money is probably the last thing on your mind. However, that doesn't mean you shouldn't seek out financial compensation for your injuries. Accidents are expensive for several reasons including lost wages, medical bills, property damages and funeral costs. Financial problems are the last thing you need after an accident and yet there they are. In fact, accident costs can put some in debt for years. This is why you should talk to a lawyer to help you receive as much financial compensation as necessary for you or your loved one's injuries.
Seeking financial compensation also helps prevent another accident from happening. Sometimes the best way for the problem to get fixed is to make sure it goes to the courts. Though most drunk drivers face legal action against their reckless actions anyway, filing a claim against them can be the best way to ensure they face ramifications and can not easily do it again to someone else.
If you or your loved one was seriously injured or killed by a drunk driver, you may be entitled to financial compensation. We know this is a hard time for you and our firm is dedicated to getting you the help you need to heal. Contact the St. Pete Lawyer today for a free case review.