Hollywood DUI Accident Lawyer

Hollywood DUI Accident Attorney

Many car accidents are avoidable, but none are more so than those involving a drunk driver. The devastating impact of impaired driving continues to be a tragic reality in Florida, and we are here to support individuals and families going through such accidents. A Hollywood DUI accident lawyer from our team understands the challenges you may be facing. The Law Offices of John D. Ameen, P.A. can pursue the compensation you deserve.

Common Injuries From Drunk Driving Accidents

Every day, 34 people die in drunk driving crashes across the United States. However, those who survive these accidents are often left with life-changing injuries and trauma. Some of the most common injuries people sustain after being hit by a drunk driver are:

• Head and brain injuries (TBIs)
• Concussions
• Spinal cord injuries or paralysis
• Broken bones and fractures
• Neck injuries
• Internal injuries and organ damage
• Disfigurement
• Emotional and psychological trauma

Compensation You May Recover From Drunk Driving Accidents

In a DUI case, you could recover compensation for economic and non-economic damages, including:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Lost income and future loss of earning capacity
• Rehabilitation costs
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment or quality of life
• Scarring, disfigurement, or other disabilities

Even beyond compensating for your losses, courts may also award punitive damages in DUI cases. These damages are not meant to cover your expenses; rather, they are meant to punish the defendant for their reckless and intentional actions.

Steps to Take After a Drunk Driver Accident

It is a traumatic experience to be involved in an accident with a drunk driver. Nevertheless, it is important to take certain steps right away, as these can significantly protect your safety and any future compensation recovery.

1. Call the police immediately. Even if the injuries seem minor, a formal police report is critical. It documents the incident, and many insurance companies and legal proceedings will require these records.
2. Gather the driver’s information. You should obtain contact and personal details from all drivers involved. This includes information from their driver’s license, vehicle registrations, and insurance documentation.
3. Identify witnesses. Do not rely solely on law enforcement to find witnesses. If possible, you should collect information from anyone who was involved with or saw the accident. Their future testimony may be invaluable to your case.
4. Document the scene with photos and videos. Be sure to take numerous photos and videos of the accident scene. These should include vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries to you or your passengers.
5. Limit your discussions. Only discuss the accident’s facts and how it occurred with the investigating police officer. Avoid making statements to other drivers, witnesses, or bystanders because these might be used against you in court.
6. Seek immediate medical attention. Even if you are feeling fine, some injuries may not be obviously apparent. Get a medical evaluation as soon as possible to document any injuries and make sure you are alright.
7. Hire a DUI lawyer. An experienced Hollywood DUI accident attorney from the Law Offices of John D. Ameen, P.A. can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and pursue the compensation you need and deserve. Call us immediately for skilled legal assistance.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim If I Was Injured in a DUI Accident in Florida?

In Florida, you typically have two years from the date of a personal injury accident to file a claim. However, in a DUI accident claim, this statute of limitations can be paused while the at-fault driver’s criminal charges are being resolved.

There are some exceptions to this, though, including:

• The discovery rule applies.
• The injured person was a minor.
• The victim was mentally incapacitated at the time of the accident.

The discovery rule states that if the injury was not immediately apparent, the clock might start from the date the injury was discovered or should reasonably have been discovered.

While two years may seem like a long time, it may take a while to build a strong case. Evidence can disappear, and witness memories can fade. We recommend that you reach out to our attorneys as soon as possible after an accident.

FAQs

Q: What Should I Do After a DUI-Related Accident in Florida?

A: You should always prioritize safety immediately after a DUI-related accident in Florida. You should call 911 for emergencies and to get law enforcement involved. You should then exchange information with the other parties, but never admit any fault. Be sure to document the scene with either photos or videos, gather witness information, and then contact an attorney.

Q: What If the Driver Wasn’t Charged With a DUI?

A: Even if a driver wasn’t charged with a DUI after an accident, they may still face civil liabilities. Under Florida’s DUI accident laws, victims can pursue a personal injury claim for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. While a conviction will strengthen the case, negligence can still be proven through evidence.

Q: What Compensation Am I Entitled to After a DUI Accident?

A: In Florida, victims of DUI accidents may claim compensation for medical expenses, lost wages or earning capacity, pain and suffering, and property damage. Florida has comparative negligence rules, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially at fault. An attorney can determine what you may be entitled to for your case.

Q: What If I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?

A: Even if you are found partially at fault for an accident in Florida, you might still recover damages. The state follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. It is important to remember that if you are deemed more than 50% at fault, you are generally prevented from obtaining any compensation.

Contact a Hollywood DUI Accident Lawyer as Soon as Possible

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident caused by a drunk driver in Hollywood, contact The Law Offices of John D. Ameen, P.A., right away. Our DUI accident lawyers can work to protect your rights and aggressively pursue the compensation you deserve.