Tampa Drunk Driver Accident Lawyer

Despite some of the toughest laws in the country, drunk driving remains a major problem in Florida. This is reflected in the state’s car accident statistics. In 2021 alone, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reported there were 251 people killed and 5,761 more injured in car accidents where one of the drivers was confirmed to be under the influence of alcohol.

A drunk driver puts everyone else on the road at risk of serious injury or death. And if you have been the victim of such drivers, you understand all too well the long and painful process of rebuilding your life after an accident. The law cannot undo the damage–but it can ensure you receive full and fair compensation for your losses. At Florin Gray, our team of Tampa drunk driver accident lawyer can represent you in dealing with insurance companies and filing a lawsuit against the people who are responsible for your accident.

Drunk Drivers and Florida’s “No Fault” Insurance Rules

You probably know that a person is considered legally intoxicated–and thus too drunk to drive–if they have a blood-alcohol content of 0.08 percent or higher at the time of their arrest. But that is just one test for drunk driving. Under Florida law, a driver can still be arrested and charged with DUI even if their BAC is below 0.08 percent. For example, if a driver shows visible signs of impairment, such as erratic driving, that can be sufficient cause for an officer to place them under arrest. Additionally, there are some cases where a driver is subject to a stricter BAC limit, such as commercial truckers.

Of course, even if you were hit by a drunk driver, you still need to comply with Florida’s no-fault insurance rules. For most accidents, this means your own insurance company must pay for your medical bills and some of your lost wages following an accident. But if the drunk driver who hit you caused a serious injury–including the significant permanent loss of a bodily function or disfigurement–you can file a personal injury lawsuit and potentially recover far more in damages, including compensation for your ongoing pain and suffering.

In some cases, you may even be able to sue additional parties beyond the drunk driver. If the driver was acting in the course and scope of their employment at the time of the accident, the employer can be held vicariously liable for your injuries. Florida also has a Dram shop law, which enables you to take legal action against a person or business who intentionally served a driver who was visibly intoxicated or under the legal drinking age of 21.

If You Were Hit by a Drunk Driver Today, Call Florin Gray

It only takes a few seconds for a drunk driver to completely upend your life. The process of rebuilding can take months, even years, during which time you may struggle to make ends meet financially. We can assist you in relieving some of that burden. If you need to speak with a qualified Tampa hit by drunk driver lawyer, contact Florin Gray today to schedule a free consultation.