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Drunk driving can have devastating consequences, and the experienced attorneys at Kogan & DiSalvo understand the importance of protecting victims’ rights. We invite you to contact a Vero Beach car accident attorney at our firm for a free and confidential consultation if you or someone you know has been injured in a drunk driving accident. You may be entitled to receive substantial damages to cover medical bills, lost wages, loss of quality of life, and more.
Below, we provide an overview of drunk driving accidents in Vero Beach, discuss the compensation that might be available for victims, explore who is liable in a drunk driving accident, answer common questions about these cases, and explain Florida’s Dram Shop Laws.
Drunk Driving Accidents in Vero Beach
Vero Beach, Florida, is an area that has seen a dramatic increase in drunk driving accidents within the last few years. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), alcohol-impaired drivers are responsible for nearly one-third of all motor vehicle fatalities in the U.S. The same organization reported that most drunk driving crashes occur between midnight and 3 a.m., when alcohol consumption is highest and, therefore, when the risk of being involved in a crash is also at its highest.
In accordance with state law, any driver with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is considered legally intoxicated and can face serious criminal charges if caught operating a motor vehicle under such influence. In Florida, penalties for drunk driving can include fines, jail time, license suspension or revocation, as well as other consequences depending on case specifics, such as number of prior offenses and severity of damages caused by the accident.
When it comes to drunk driving incidents in Vero Beach, victims and their families should be aware that they may have legal recourse available to them in order to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages from missed work due to injury or death of family member, car repair costs or replacement costs if necessary and more depending on each specific situation.
It’s important for residents of Vero Beach to be aware of the dangers associated with drinking and driving so they can make informed decisions about how best to protect themselves while on the roadways. Taking proper precautions, such as designating a sober driver before leaving home, can help ensure everyone’s safety while traveling through this beautiful area of Florida!
Damages and Compensation from Being Hit By a Drunk Driver
Being hit by a drunk driver can leave victims with serious injuries, catastrophic medical bills, and long-term mental and emotional trauma. Victims of drunk driving accidents in Vero Beach may be entitled to compensation for all of their damages.
Damages could include compensation for:
- Hospitalization
- Surgery
- Physical therapy
- Medications
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Punitive damages in the case of wrongful death
If a third-party establishment served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated customer prior to the accident occurring, then they may also be held liable under Florida’s Dram Shop Laws. This means that victims could potentially recover additional compensation from these establishments as well as from the driver who caused their injuries.
To understand what damages you could claim, schedule a no-cost consultation with a drunk driving injury lawyer.
Who Is Liable in a Drunk Driving Accident?
When it comes to determining who is liable in a drunk driving accident, there are several parties that may be held accountable. The most obvious party is the other driver – if they are found to have been operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, then they can be held liable for any damages caused as a result.
Third parties such as bars and restaurants may also be held liable for serving alcohol to a person who is habitually addicted to alcohol or someone under the legal drinking age. These third parties can face civil and criminal charges if they are found to have served alcohol inappropriately.
Contact Kogan & DiSalvo for a Free and Confidential Consultation
At Kogan & DiSalvo, we believe in holding those responsible for causing drunk driving accidents accountable for their actions. Our aggressive and empathetic team will use all available resources to build a strong case on behalf of our clients so that they can get the justice they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation with one of our lawyers who specializes in drunk driving cases in Vero Beach, Florida.
