The aftermath of an alcohol-related accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. In Coral Gables, from the bustling traffic on South Dixie Highway (US-1) to the vibrant dining districts along Miracle Mile and Ponce de Leon Boulevard, drunk driving collisions occur far too often. At Altman Law Firm, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these preventable crashes take on victims and their families. Led by Jeffrey S. Altman, our Miami-based personal injury firm provides compassionate and dedicated legal representation to help you navigate the complex recovery process and seek accountability from negligent parties.
When a drunk driver causes a crash, they are not always the only party responsible. Under Florida Statute Section 768.125, also known as the dram shop law, an establishment that sells or serves alcohol may be held liable under specific conditions. In Florida, this liability is generally limited to situations where a business knowingly serves alcohol to a person under the legal drinking age of 21, or knowingly serves a person habitually addicted to alcohol. Whether the individual was served at a local Coral Gables bar, restaurant, or lounge, we thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the crash to identify all potentially liable parties.
Florida operates under a modified comparative negligence system. This means that if you are found partially at fault for the accident, your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. Crucially, under recent Florida law reforms, if you are determined to be more than 50% responsible for the incident, you are barred from recovering any damages from other negligent parties. Navigating these rules requires a careful analysis of the evidence, from police reports to witness statements along busy Coral Gables thoroughfares like Bird Road or Alhambra Plaza.
Victims of alcohol-related accidents may seek recovery for medical expenses, lost wages, future rehabilitation needs, and pain and suffering. Additionally, because drunk driving involves a reckless disregard for the safety of others, these cases may warrant a claim for punitive damages. Punitive damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the community. While we cannot promise specific financial outcomes, we work diligently to build a robust case that reflects the true impact of the injury on your life.
In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims based on negligence is generally two years from the date of the accident. If the accident resulted in a tragic loss of life, a wrongful death claim must also typically be filed within two years. Because gathering evidence like surveillance footage from local establishments or breathalyzer results is time-sensitive, it is beneficial to consult with a legal professional as soon as possible.
Yes. The civil justice system is completely separate from the criminal justice system. A criminal case focuses on punishing the driver for violating state laws, which may result in jail time or license suspension. A civil personal injury claim, however, is filed by you to seek financial compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and suffering. You can pursue your civil claim regardless of the status or outcome of the driver's criminal case.
Underage drinking and driving is a serious concern, particularly in college communities near the University of Miami. If an underage driver caused your accident, there may be multiple avenues of liability. This can include the driver themselves, the owner of the vehicle they were operating, and potentially any establishment or adult who unlawfully provided the alcohol to the minor. We examine every detail to determine who should be held accountable.
Establishing fault involves gathering comprehensive evidence. This includes the police report, chemical test results (such as blood alcohol concentration), eyewitness testimony, dashcam or traffic camera footage, and accident reconstruction analysis. Even if the driver was clearly intoxicated, we must still demonstrate that their negligence directly caused your injuries and subsequent financial or personal losses.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an alcohol-related accident in Coral Gables, contact Altman Law Firm today to schedule a free, confidential consultation. Call (305) 373-3730.