A collision involving an impaired driver can change your life in an instant. Along the busy corridors of Miami Beach, from the MacArthur Causeway to Collins Avenue, the combination of heavy traffic and active nightlife unfortunately increases the risk of alcohol-related crashes. At Altman Law Firm, we represent individuals and families who have suffered serious injuries due to the reckless choice of others to drive under the influence.
When an alcohol-related accident occurs on Miami Beach streets like Washington Avenue or Alton Road, the driver is not always the only responsible party. Florida Statute Section 768.125 outlines the state's dram shop laws. Under specific circumstances, an establishment that serves alcohol can be held liable if they willfully and unlawfully serve a minor, or knowingly serve a person habitually addicted to alcohol. Investigating these claims requires a detailed look at where the driver was served prior to the collision, helping to ensure all negligent parties are held accountable.
Florida operates under a modified comparative negligence system. This means that even if you are partially at fault for an accident, you may still recover damages, provided your responsibility does not exceed 50%. Navigating these rules requires a clear presentation of the facts. Additionally, Florida law imposes strict time limits, known as the statute of limitations, for filing personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits. Acting promptly helps preserve crucial evidence, such as surveillance footage from local South Beach venues or breathalyzer results, which are vital to building a strong case.
For decades, attorney Jeffrey S. Altman has advocated for accident victims throughout Miami-Dade County. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll of a severe collision. Our firm works directly with medical professionals, accident reconstructionists, and investigators to document the full extent of your injuries and losses. We handle the complex legal details and communications with insurance companies so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.
Your immediate priority should always be safety and medical attention. Call 911 so that Miami Beach police can respond, document the scene, and conduct sobriety tests if they suspect impairment. Gather contact information from witnesses, take photos of the scene if safe to do so, and seek a comprehensive medical evaluation as soon as possible, even if your injuries seem minor at first.
Yes, under Florida's dram shop law, a business may be held liable if they unlawfully serve alcohol to a minor under 21, or if they knowingly serve a person who is habitually addicted to alcohol. Establishing this liability requires gathering evidence such as receipts, witness testimonies, and bar surveillance footage.
Under Florida law, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits is generally two years from the date of the accident. If the accident unfortunately resulted in a wrongful death, the timeline is also typically two years. Because gathering evidence like traffic camera footage and blood-alcohol reports is time-sensitive, it is beneficial to consult a lawyer as soon as possible.
Florida's modified comparative negligence law allows you to seek compensation even if you share some responsibility for the crash, as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% responsible, your compensation would be reduced by 20%.
No. Reviewing the information on this website or reaching out to Altman Law Firm for an initial consultation does not establish an attorney-client relationship. A formal relationship is only created once a written representation agreement is signed by both you and our firm.
If you or a loved one has been injured by an impaired driver in Miami Beach, contact Altman Law Firm today to discuss your legal options with attorney Jeffrey S. Altman. Call (305) 373-3730.