Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer in Panama City, FL

Fighting For Those Who Have Been Injured By Drunk Drivers in Florida

If you or a loved one has been involved in a drunk driving accident, it is important to seek the services of a reputable personal injury attorney. At Syfrett, Dykes & Furr, we understand the devastating impact that a drunk driving accident can have on your life. That's why we are dedicated to providing you with the legal representation you need to get back on your feet.

Our team of experienced drunk driving accident lawyers has the knowledge and skill to help you navigate the legal system and obtain the compensation you deserve. We will work closely with you to understand your unique situation and develop a personalized strategy to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Call Syfrett, Dykes & Furr today at (850) 795-4979 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our Panama City drunk driving accident attorney.

Drunk Driving Accident Statistics in Florida

Drunk driving remains a major issue in Florida, contributing to a significant number of traffic accidents, injuries, and fatalities each year. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), these statistics highlight the severity of the problem:

• Over 5,000 DUI Arrests: Each year, thousands of individuals are arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Florida.
• More Than 10,000 DUI Crashes: Florida sees over 10,000 drunk driving crashes annually, resulting in numerous injuries and fatalities.
• Fatalities: Drunk driving is responsible for approximately 25-30% of all traffic-related deaths in Florida.
• Injuries: Drunk driving accidents contribute to over 7,000 injuries per year, many of which result in long-term pain, disabilities, and medical expenses.

These statistics underline the importance of holding drunk drivers accountable and ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve for the physical, emotional, and financial toll caused by these accidents.

Florida Drunk Driving Laws and Car Accidents

In Florida, strict laws govern driving under the influence (DUI) to protect the safety of all road users. Here's an overview of the key legal aspects related to DUI and car accidents:

Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits:

• The legal BAC limit in Florida is 0.08% for most drivers.
• Commercial drivers have a lower limit of 0.04%.
• Drivers under 21 are subject to a 0.02% BAC limit.

Penalties for DUI:

• A first-time DUI offense can result in fines, license suspension, and mandatory DUI education.
• Subsequent offenses can lead to longer suspensions, higher fines, and even jail time.
• If a DUI accident causes injury or death, the penalties can include significant prison sentences.

Impact on Personal Injury Claims:

• If a drunk driver is convicted, this can strengthen a personal injury claim, as it provides proof of the driver's negligence in a car accident.
• Criminal convictions in DUI cases do not automatically affect civil claims, but they can bolster the victim’s case when seeking compensation for damages like medical costs, pain and suffering, and lost wages.

Understanding Florida’s DUI laws can help victims navigate the legal process and ensure they receive appropriate compensation for their injuries and losses caused by drunk driving accidents.

How Comparative Fault Affects Your Case

Florida follows a comparative fault system in personal injury cases, which can impact the amount of compensation you may recover. Here’s how it works:

What is Comparative Fault?

• In Florida, if you are partially at fault for an accident, your compensation may be reduced based on your degree of fault.
• For example, if you are found 20% at fault for an accident, your settlement will be reduced by 20%.

How It Affects Drunk Driving Cases:

• Even if the other driver was drunk, you may still be held partially responsible for the accident under certain circumstances, such as if you were speeding or not wearing a seatbelt.
• It’s important to understand that Florida law allows you to still recover compensation even if you are partially at fault, but your settlement will be adjusted.

Why It Matters:

• Understanding the comparative fault system is crucial for determining how much compensation you are entitled to. A skilled attorney can help protect your rights and work to minimize your responsibility in the accident.

With this knowledge, you can better understand your case and ensure that your legal rights are upheld, even if there is a question of shared responsibility.

Some common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The force of a collision can cause significant head trauma, leading to concussions, contusions, or more severe brain injuries. Symptoms can range from mild headaches to life-altering cognitive impairments.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: The effect can damage the spinal cord, leading to partial or full paralysis. Such injuries often need extensive medical treatment and long-term rehabilitation.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: The sudden and forceful blow can break bones in the arms, legs, ribs, and other areas. These injuries may require surgery and prolonged physical therapy.
• Internal Injuries: The blunt force of a crash can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs. These injuries can be life-threatening and necessitate immediate medical intervention.
• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: The rapid back-and-forth motion of the neck during a crash can cause whiplash, which causes pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
• Facial Injuries: Impact on the steering wheel, dashboard, or airbags can cause cuts, bruises, and fractures to the face, potentially leading to permanent disfigurement.
• Psychological Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, victims often suffer from emotional distress, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression, requiring professional mental health support.

What Damages Are Available After a Drunk Driving Accident

As a victim of a drunk driving accident, you may be entitled to receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Our drunk driving accident attorneys have a proven track record of success in securing substantial settlements and judgments for our clients.

We understand the complex legal issues involved in drunk driving accident cases, including liability, insurance coverage, and criminal charges. Our attorneys will work tirelessly to build a strong case on your behalf, using all available evidence and legal resources to achieve a favorable outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Drunk Driving Accidents in Florida

• Can I file a lawsuit against a drunk driver even if they are not convicted?
  Yes, you can file a personal injury lawsuit regardless of whether the drunk driver is convicted in criminal court. A criminal conviction may strengthen your case, but it is not required to pursue a civil claim for damages. Your lawsuit will focus on proving negligence, not criminal liability.
• How long do I have to file a drunk driving accident claim in Florida?
  In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those from drunk driving accidents, is four years from the date of the accident. If you do not file your claim within this period, you may lose your right to seek compensation.
• What should I do if the drunk driver doesn’t have insurance?
  If the drunk driver does not have insurance or has insufficient coverage, you may still be able to recover damages through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Florida law requires that insurance policies offer this coverage, though you may need to file a claim with your own insurance company.
• What types of damages can I recover from a drunk driving accident?
  You may be eligible to recover both economic and non-economic damages, including:
  • Medical expenses (current and future)
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Property damage
  • Punitive damages (if the drunk driver’s actions were especially reckless)
• Do I need to hire a lawyer for my drunk driving accident case?
  While you are not required to hire an attorney, having an experienced lawyer can significantly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation. A lawyer can handle negotiations with insurance companies, gather evidence, and represent your interests in court, ensuring you don’t miss out on potential compensation.
• What happens if the drunk driver flees the scene of the accident?
  If the drunk driver leaves the scene of the accident, it is important to report the hit-and-run to the police immediately. If the driver is not located, your own insurance may provide compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage. Having an attorney can help ensure all options are explored to recover damages.
• Can I sue if I was injured as a passenger in a drunk driving accident?
  Yes, passengers can file a claim against the drunk driver, even if they were in the vehicle when the accident occurred. The driver’s actions, whether they were under the influence or reckless, make them liable for the injuries caused. 

Contact Our Drunk Driving Accident Attorney in Panama City Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident in Panama City, FL, don't wait to seek legal representation. We will provide you with the guidance and support you need to move forward and recover from your accident.