Drunk driving accidents are among the most devastating and preventable crashes on the road. When an intoxicated driver causes a car wreck, victims can suffer life-changing injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk driver, it’s essential to seek legal help from a Fort Lauderdale car wreck attorney. Attorney Big Al at Hurt123 is dedicated to fighting for justice and helping victims recover the compensation they deserve.
The Dangers of Drunk Driving Accidents
Drunk driving is a serious issue that puts everyone on the road at risk. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 32 people die every day in the U.S. due to alcohol-impaired crashes. That’s one fatality every 45 minutes. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and reduced coordination, making them a danger to others.
Some common types of drunk driving accidents include:
- Head-on Collisions – Drunk drivers often swerve into oncoming traffic, leading to severe head-on crashes.
- Rear-End Accidents – Impaired drivers may not brake in time, causing violent rear-end collisions.
- T-Bone Crashes – Running red lights and stop signs is common among intoxicated drivers, leading to dangerous side-impact accidents.
- Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents – Drunk drivers may fail to see pedestrians or cyclists, causing fatal accidents.
Legal Options for Drunk Driving Accident Victims
If you’ve been injured in a crash caused by a drunk driver, you have several legal options to seek compensation:
1. Filing a Personal Injury Claim
A personal injury claim allows victims to recover damages for:
- Medical expenses (hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation)
- Lost wages due to missed work
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
An experienced Fort Lauderdale car wreck attorney can help you gather evidence, build a strong case, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
2. Filing a Wrongful Death Claim
If you lost a loved one in a drunk driving accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This legal action can help recover damages for funeral costs, loss of income, and emotional suffering.
3. Pursuing Punitive Damages
Unlike standard car accident cases, victims of drunk driving crashes may be eligible for punitive damages. These damages are meant to punish the at-fault driver for reckless behavior and deter others from driving under the influence.
How a Fort Lauderdale Car Wreck Attorney Can Help
Navigating the legal system after a drunk driving accident can be overwhelming. Attorney Big Al at Hurt123 can help by:
- Investigating the Accident – Gathering police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage to prove the driver’s intoxication.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies – Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. A skilled attorney will fight for a fair settlement.
- Representing You in Court – If a fair settlement isn’t reached, your attorney can take the case to trial to seek maximum compensation.
- Identifying All Liable Parties – In some cases, bars or restaurants that over-served the drunk driver may also be held accountable under Florida’s dram shop laws.
What to Do After a Drunk Driving Accident
If you’ve been involved in an accident caused by a drunk driver, follow these steps to protect your rights:
- Call 911 – Report the accident to law enforcement and ensure the at-fault driver is tested for alcohol.
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Document the Scene – Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions.
- Gather Witness Information – Witness testimony can be crucial in proving fault.
- Avoid Speaking with Insurance Adjusters Alone – Insurance companies may try to get you to settle for less than you deserve.
- Contact a Fort Lauderdale Car Wreck Attorney – A lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help you recover full compensation.
Contact Attorney Big Al at Hurt123 Today
Drunk driving accidents can have devastating consequences, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Attorney Big Al at Hurt123 is committed to helping victims get the justice and compensation they need to move forward. If you’ve been injured in a drunk driving accident in Fort Lauderdale, contact us today for a free consultation.