When it comes to mistakes in life, driving drunk may be the top 10 mistakes you should never make. Not only because you put your life in danger but also because you can negatively affect the lives of others forever.
Many catastrophes could have been avoided if those who made the fatal decision of getting into that car while drunk had reflected more on the consequences of these events.
But the world is not perfect; many things happen for irrational or inexplicable reasons, some others due to irresponsibility or simply feeling beaten up inside and wanting to transmit that feeling of pain to the world.
Drunk drivers are a kind of child disguised as adults who have not yet achieved total control of their emotions or actions. Therefore, they must be judged to the full extent of the law and must find a way to reintegrate into society to avoid repetitive consequences in the future.
At The Ward Law Group, we stand in solidarity with all the victims of these events and call for the awareness of new drivers, especially the populations of teenage drivers who are within a high-risk percentage of committing this type of crime. Violations.
For that, we will analyze the most relevant aspects of drunk driving and how it affects the tranquility of Kissimmee and Florida in general.
Therefore, our house is the place we must take care of as professionals, constantly invoking respect for rules and consideration for others. Contact one of our drunk driving lawyers!
Drunk Driving Accidents in Kissimmee
Drunk driving remains an ongoing concern that demands our attention and action. In 2018 alone, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles recorded a staggering 5,106 alcohol-related crashes, resulting in 2,984 injuries and 372 fatalities across the state.
Within Osceola County, these numbers paint a grim picture, with 55 alcohol-involved crashes causing 12 fatalities and 27 injuries. The frequency of these incidents is alarming, with neighboring Polk County experiencing even higher rates of tragedy.
At The Ward Law Group, we recognize that causing an accident while under the influence of alcohol constitutes negligent behavior, leaving victims with the right to pursue compensation for their injuries.
Our commitment to serving the Kissimmee community extends to advocating for the rights of those affected by such accidents. With decades of experience handling car accident cases in Osceola County, our Kissimmee drunk driving accident lawyers possess the knowledge and expertise to hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions.
We understand the importance of providing our clients personalized attention and ongoing communication. You can trust that your case will receive the dedicated representation it deserves, and you'll always be informed about its progress.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries or worse in a car accident involving a drunk driver in Osceola County, don't hesitate to reach out to The Ward Law Group. Together, we'll seek justice and work towards securing the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Why Drunk Driving Accidents Pose a Heightened Risk?
A driver under the influence of alcohol presents a significant hazard on the roadways. Not only are they more prone to causing accidents, but these collisions are often more severe compared to those involving sober drivers. Alcohol consumption impairs not only mental judgment but also coordination and physical reflexes.
Consequently, intoxicated drivers may fail to perceive the impending danger of a crash, resulting in delayed braking or steering actions to avoid the collision. As a consequence, these accidents tend to be more forceful and impactful.
After a crash, individuals may seek recourse through no-fault insurance benefits to cover medical expenses and lost income.
However, suppose the accident results in permanent injuries as defined by Florida auto accident law. In that case, victims are entitled to pursue compensation from the at-fault driver for the full extent of their damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Florida law further allows for punitive damages in cases involving gross negligence or extremely reckless driving behavior, such as drunk driving.
While securing punitive damages can be challenging, our dedicated car accident attorneys spare no effort in advocating for our clients to ensure they receive the maximum compensation available.
The Significance of DUI Arrests in Civil Cases
In Florida, drivers can be arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) if their blood alcohol content (BAC) exceeds .08% or if there is other evidence indicating impairment. A DUI conviction can serve as compelling evidence in a civil case, establishing negligence per se and simplifying the process of proving liability.
However, a DUI conviction is not a prerequisite for pursuing legal action against a drunk driver. Civil and criminal courts operate under different standards, allowing victims to seek redress without a DUI conviction.
Experienced car accident attorneys possess the skills and resources to compile evidence demonstrating the driver's intoxication, negligence, and liability.
Assessing Liability of Establishments Overserving Alcohol
Florida's "dram shop" laws impose liability on bars and liquor stores under specific circumstances. Establishments may be held accountable if they serve alcohol to a minor involved in a crash or to an adult known to be habitually addicted to alcohol.
While proving habitual addiction presents challenges, pursuing legal action against negligent establishments remains a viable option for victims seeking maximum compensation.
At The Ward Law Group, we leave no stone unturned in pursuing all avenues of compensation for our clients. If we identify grounds for liability against a bar or restaurant, we will diligently pursue legal action to secure the compensation our clients deserve.
Our Drunk Driving attorneys are Ready to Help with Your Case.
No two car accidents are exactly alike, even if they have the exact cause. When our law firm handles your drunk driving accident case, we treat you like a person, not a case file. We work hard to ensure your case gets the focus and attention to detail it deserves.
Our Kissimmee personal injury attorney will ensure you receive the following:
Prompt responses to all questions and concerns The benefits of all our guidance, support, and resources Personalized, communicative legal service and direction The driver who caused your accident should cover its financial consequences. Our law firm works hard to ensure they do.
We do nothing to investigate your case and help you navigate the personal injury legal and insurance process.
We Will Prove the At-Fault Driver's Financial Liability
To hold someone responsible for compensating you after an accident, the state requires you to prove its cause was negligence. Our law firm's familiarity with personal injury law means we know how to establish the at-fault driver:
- Owed you a duty of care
- Breached their required duty
- Caused your accident and injuries
- Caused you to suffer financial harm
We will collect evidence of negligence and use it to steer your case toward a financial settlement rather than a lengthy trial.
Evidence Tells the Story of Your Kissimmee Accident
In Kissimmee, Florida Statutes § 316.066 requires you to file a police report after most accidents. We will obtain a copy of yours. It will provide us with valuable information that supports your right to recover damages. Other evidence we collect on your behalf includes:
- Medical records and bills
- Job and salary records
- Accident scene photos
- Photos of your injuries
- Witness statements
- Expert testimonials
Personal injury cases are usually settled without going to court. This typically happens when the evidence indicates negligence. Our law firm will gather evidence supporting your case, starting with your car accident report.
Seeking Compensation After Your Accident
Any car accident can result in significant financial losses. The responsibility for covering these expenses must lie with the negligent party, not you or your family.
At The Ward Law Group, our Kissimmee drunk driving accident lawyer will vigorously pursue compensation on your behalf.
Financial Losses
Financial damages are typically supported by documentation such as bills, receipts, estimates, and other relevant records. Under Florida Statutes § 768.81, recoverable financial damages may include medical expenses, travel costs related to treatment, lost wages, and property damage.
Non-Economic Damages
Determining the value of non-economic damages can be complex. Our experienced legal team assists you in assessing the monetary worth of any disabilities or disfigurements resulting from the accident.
Recovering from the trauma of the accident and its aftermath may require mental health care and therapy.
We help you seek compensation for both physical and emotional pain and suffering, as well as for any diminished quality of life experienced as a result of the accident.
Wrongful Death Damages
In cases involving the loss of a loved one due to a drunk driving accident, The Ward Law Group will support your family in seeking compensation. We pursue wrongful death damages to cover funeral and burial expenses.
Additionally, recoverable damages may encompass the financial and household contributions your loved one provided to the family. You may also be eligible for compensation for the loss of companionship, guidance, and support your loved one provided.
Contact a Drunk Driving Accident Attorney in Kissimmee
You've been in an accident that wasn't your fault. It completely interrupted your life, and you deserve compensation. Unfortunately, the insurance companies want you to settle for less. This is how they can turn a profit. If you try to settle a claim alone, you may make critical mistakes that cost you thousands of dollars. You need money to pay the bills, put food on the table, and secure your family's future.
The Ward Law Group won't let insurance companies take advantage of you. We help English—and Spanish-speaking individuals get the compensation they need during the difficult times after a drunk driving accident in Kissimmee. The Ward Law Group has an intimate understanding of insurance companies and how they can try to shortchange deserving victims.
So, how do you get started? Simply calling 855-DOLOR-55 connects you with a dedicated team that will explain the insurance claim process—in English or Spanish—and start fighting on your behalf.