An alcohol-related accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. Whether you were driving down Interstate 95, walking along Clematis Street in West Palm Beach, or heading home in Boca Raton, a drunk driver's reckless decision can lead to devastating injuries. At Altman Law Firm, we help victims and their families navigate the complex legal aftermath of drunk driving crashes throughout Palm Beach County. Jeffrey S. Altman provides dedicated, compassionate advocacy to help you seek accountability and the recovery you need to move forward.
Florida law holds drunk drivers accountable for the harm they cause, but they may not be the only responsible party. Under Florida Statute Section 768.125, also known as the dram shop law, an establishment that sells or furnishes alcohol can sometimes be held liable. This applies if they willfully and unlawfully serve alcohol to a minor under 21, or knowingly serve a person habitually addicted to alcohol. Investigating these claims requires prompt action to preserve evidence, such as bar receipts, surveillance footage, and witness statements from local venues in busy areas like Delray Beach's Atlantic Avenue or downtown West Palm Beach.
If you have been injured, it is crucial to understand how Florida's modified comparative negligence framework affects your claim. Under this system, an injured party can recover damages as long as they are not more than 50% at fault for the incident. Additionally, if an alcohol-related crash tragically results in the loss of a loved one, Florida's Wrongful Death Act allows surviving family members to seek damages for their immense loss. Keep in mind that Florida has strict time limits—known as the statute of limitations—for filing personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits. Consulting a legal professional early helps ensure your rights are protected.
Alcohol-related collisions on major routes like Florida's Turnpike, Southern Boulevard, or Okeechobee Boulevard often result in severe, life-altering injuries. Victims may face overwhelming medical bills, lost wages from missed work, and long-term rehabilitation costs. Our firm works diligently to build a comprehensive case on your behalf, gathering police reports, toxicology results, and medical records to present a clear picture of the impact the crash has had on your life. We represent clients throughout Palm Beach County, including Jupiter, Wellington, and Palm Beach Gardens, guiding them through negotiations with insurance companies or preparations for the local court system.
Yes, under limited circumstances defined by Florida's dram shop statute. An establishment may be held liable if they unlawfully served alcohol to a minor or knowingly served someone habitually addicted to alcohol who then caused an accident.
In Florida, the statute of limitations for most personal injury lawsuits based on negligence is two years from the date of the accident. Wrongful death claims also generally have a two-year limit. It is critical to act quickly to preserve evidence.
Florida uses a modified comparative negligence system. You can recover compensation as long as you are 50% or less responsible for the accident. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you are barred from recovery.
First, seek immediate medical attention and ensure law enforcement is called to the scene so they can document the driver's impairment. Gather contact information from witnesses, take photos of the scene if safe to do so, and contact a personal injury attorney before speaking with insurance adjusters.
Many personal injury claims are resolved through negotiations with insurance providers without ever going to trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, filing a lawsuit in the Palm Beach County court system may be necessary to pursue the recovery you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an alcohol-related accident in Palm Beach County, contact Altman Law Firm today to discuss your situation in a free, confidential consultation. Call (305) 373-3730.