DUI Accident Lawyer in Tampa
Drunk driving accidents are more common than we think. According to the Centers for Disease Control, every day almost 30 people die as a result of alcohol-induced impaired driving, and the cost of alcohol-related crashes every year is around $59 billion. If you or a loved one was seriously injured, or even killed, by a drunk driver, call The Pawlowski//Mastrilli Law Group today so that we can help you get the compensation that you deserve. Contact our experienced DUI Accident Lawyer in Tampa today.
The Drunk Driving Problem
In 2010 alone, 1.4 million drivers were arrested for driving under the influence, and in 2013, 31% of traffic-related deaths were caused by drunk driving. Clearly, there are many drunk drivers on the road, and injuries are oftentimes catastrophic.
What to Do After Being Hit By a Drunk Driver
After an accident, once everyone is safe, you should call 911. This is for your safety, but it is also because drunk drivers often try to leave the scene. If it is safe to do so, try to get the other driver’s license plate number in case they try to flee. It is not uncommon for drunk drivers to switch seats with somebody they are travelling with, so if you can, try to take a picture of who is driving the car.
Do not attempt to move somebody if they are seriously injured because this can make matters worse. Also, do not move the cars because doing so will make it more difficult for law enforcement to document the scene of the crime.
Insurance companies will try to offer you the lowest amount they can, so do not accept any offers until you have spoken with an experienced personal injury lawyer. Call The Pawlowski//Mastrilli Law Group today for a free consultation.
Take note of any evidence that the other driver has been drinking. For instance, if you smell alcohol on their breath, or if you heard the person say anything to anyone about having had a drink earlier, let law enforcement know. This type of evidence can be used against that party at trial. If possible, take pictures of the damage and the whole accident scene. This will also be helpful at trial.
Remember that the most important thing is your health, so when medical personnel arrive, have them check out your injuries. This is also a way of documenting your injuries. Make sure you cooperate with police, and also report the accident to your insurance company and cooperate with them as well.
female driver looking at cars after car accident on road
Applicable Laws
In Florida, the legal limit for blood alcohol content is .08%, and if the driver is below the age of 21, it is only .02%.
If the victim is killed by the drunk driver, the surviving family members can bring suit in the form of a wrongful death action. This is when surviving family members file suit on behalf of the deceased victim. In drunk driving cases, plaintiffs can recover for pain and suffering, medical bills, funeral costs (in cases resulting in death), lost wages, disability, and more. If the plaintiff was married to the deceased victim, he or she can recover for lost services and spousal support.
In certain cases, you can also recover payment from the business that served alcohol to the drunk driver. The laws governing these types of suits are called “dram shop laws.” In special circumstances, you can recover punitive damages, which are meant to punish the driver. It is important to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer to see if any of these laws are applicable to your case. Contact our Tampa DUI accident lawyers for more information.
DUI Accidents In Tampa: Key Roads To Watch
Tampa has several roads that are notorious for DUI accidents. Awareness of these dangerous areas can help you stay alert and potentially avoid a serious collision.
1. Interstate 275 (I-275)
This busy highway is a common location for DUI accidents, particularly at key junctions and exits where traffic is dense and speeds are high.
2. Interstate 4 (I-4)
Often cited as one of the most dangerous highways in the U.S., I-4 has seen numerous DUI-related accidents, making it a critical area for drivers to be extra cautious.
3. Dale Mabry Highway
Stretching from Hillsborough Avenue to Bearss Avenue, this road frequently sees accidents due to its heavy traffic and busy nature, with DUI accidents occurring regularly.
4. Hillsborough Avenue
An east-west route plagued by frequent DUI accidents, particularly between Longboat Boulevard and Florida Avenue.
5. Fletcher Avenue
Known for its high accident rates, especially between Armenia Avenue and 50th Street, Fletcher Avenue is another hot spot for DUI-related crashes.
6. Bruce B. Downs Boulevard
This stretch between Fowler Avenue and Bearss Avenue is another location in Tampa where DUI accidents are frequent.
Drivers should be extra vigilant when traveling on these roads, especially during high-risk times such as late at night or on weekends.
Call our DUI Accident Lawyer in Tampa Today for a Free Consultation
Call the experienced DUI Accident Lawyer in Tampa at The Pawlowski//Mastrilli Law Group today for a free consultation. Litigating a drunk driving injury case can be a complex matter, and experience counts. We pride ourselves on the quality of our legal work, and we make it a point to focus on the quality of representation rather than the number of cases we take. We are not a high volume firm, and we treat our clients as individuals. You will notice the difference. Call us today at 813-242-4404 so that we can help evaluate your case.
FAQ: DUI Accidents
1. What steps should I take immediately after a drunk driving accident?
After ensuring everyone’s safety, call 911 to report the incident. Document the scene with photos of the damage, any visible signs of intoxication, and the other driver’s license plate number if possible. If you were injured, contacting a drunk driving injury lawyer quickly can help protect your rights.
2. Am I eligible to file a claim if I was hurt by a drunk driver?
Yes, if a drunk driver caused your injuries, you are legally entitled to pursue compensation. This can cover medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. A drunk driving accidents attorney in Tampa can help you navigate the claim process and assess the potential of your case.
3. What kinds of damages are recoverable in a DUI accident claim?
Victims of DUI accidents may seek compensation for medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, emotional distress, and sometimes punitive damages. In cases of wrongful death, families can also recover for funeral costs and loss of companionship. A skilled drunk driving injury lawyer can help you understand the damages applicable to your case.
4. Can I hold a bar or restaurant accountable if they served the drunk driver?
Yes, under Florida’s “dram shop” laws, you may be able to hold an establishment liable if they served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated driver who later caused an accident. A knowledgeable drunk driving accidents attorney in Tampa can assess whether these laws apply to your situation.
5. What evidence is crucial in a DUI accident case?
Important evidence includes photos or videos of the accident, witness statements, police reports, and signs of intoxication like open alcohol containers or the driver’s behavior. Medical records documenting your injuries also play a vital role. An experienced drunk driving injury lawyer can help you gather the strongest evidence for your case.
6. How long do I have to file a DUI injury claim in Florida?
In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically four years, while wrongful death claims have a two-year limit. Acting quickly and consulting a drunk driving accidents attorney in Tampa helps ensure you meet important deadlines.
7. How can a drunk driving injury lawyer assist with insurance claims?
Insurance companies often aim to settle for the lowest amount possible. An experienced drunk driving injury lawyer can negotiate on your behalf, helping you receive a fair settlement and preventing underpayment for your injuries.
8. Can I still seek compensation if I was partially responsible for the accident?
Yes, Florida’s “pure comparative negligence” law allows you to recover damages even if you share some fault. However, your compensation may be reduced based on your level of responsibility. A drunk driving accidents attorney in Tampa can help clarify how this law may impact your claim.
9. What if the drunk driver left the scene?
In a hit-and-run scenario, it’s essential to report the incident to the police and gather as much evidence as possible. Your drunk driving injury lawyer can help you explore options for compensation, such as through uninsured motorist coverage.
10. What happens during a free consultation with a drunk driving injury lawyer?
In a free consultation, the lawyer will review your case details, explain your rights, discuss potential compensation, and provide guidance on the next steps. Connecting with a drunk driving accidents attorney in Tampa can give you valuable insights without any obligation.
