Coral Springs Drunk Driver Accident Lawyer
Drunk drivers are a definite danger on Florida’s roads. Although it is against the law to drive while intoxicated, this doesn’t stop hundreds of people from getting behind the wheel after one too many drinks. Few drunk drivers crash—but when they do, they cause serious injuries.
Lyons & Snyder is dedicated to helping accident victims harmed by negligent and reckless motorists. If you were struck by an intoxicated motorist, call us. Our Coral Springs drunk driver accident lawyer will meet with you to review your case.
Who Can You Sue for a Drunk Driving Accident?
First, you can sue the drunk driver. Anyone who is chemically impaired is not operating their vehicle safely. This means that, at a minimum, they were negligent. You can sue them for full compensation for your injuries suffered in a wreck.
Second, you might sue a bar, tavern, or restaurant that served the drunk driver. These business entities are liable when they serve a minor or a known drunkard. So if you get struck by a 19 year old who was served drinks at a bar, you can sue the bar.
There might be other parties. Let our law firm analyze the facts surrounding your case.
What Compensation Can You Receive?
Drunk driving accidents cause serious damage and injuries. Our clients have high medical bills, and many need to get their car repaired. We seek damages for all these losses:
- Medical bills
- Lost income
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
Under Florida law, you can also seek punitive damages when a defendant has been grossly negligent. Being drunk or high are obvious examples of this type of offensive conduct. Punitive damages are designed to punish a defendant and deter anyone from committing similar bad acts. They can dramatically increase the amount of money you take home for a crash. At Lyons & Snyder, we always consider whether we can seek punitive damages for our clients.
Why Doesn’t the Prosecutor Bring these Charges?
Although drunk driving is a criminal offense, causing an accident is also a civil wrong called a “tort.” The prosecutor will handle the criminal side of things and seek penalties for anyone convicted of drunk driving. These penalties can include fines, probation, and even time in jail.
A civil lawsuit seeks money damages. Accident victims are responsible for bringing their own cases in court and should hire a lawyer to help them.
Interestingly, the burden of proof is lower for civil cases, so we might win a case even if the defendant beats the criminal charges. Our legal team will review all available evidence to prove intoxication. If police took a breath or urine test, we might be able to use the results in our case.
Experienced Drunk Driver Accident Lawyers
Lyons & Snyder has overseen numerous drunk driving cases on behalf of injured victims. We can help you document the full extent of your physical and mental injuries, then get to work negotiating a settlement. To find out more, please contact us today.
