Dealing with the aftermath of a crash caused by an intoxicated driver is overwhelming. At Altman Law Firm, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these preventable collisions take on victims and their families throughout Port St. Lucie. Jeffrey S. Altman represents individuals and families navigating the complex legal landscape following alcohol-related incidents, holding negligent drivers and potentially establishments accountable for their actions.
Collisions involving impaired drivers often occur on major local thoroughfares like US-1, Florida's Turnpike, or busy corridors near Tradition and Port St. Lucie Boulevard. When someone chooses to get behind the wheel after drinking, the consequences are frequently catastrophic. Victims may suffer severe injuries ranging from traumatic brain injuries to spinal cord damage. Beyond the reckless driver, Florida law sometimes allows for dram shop liability claims against bars, restaurants, or vendors who unlawfully served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person or a minor who later caused a crash.
Navigating a personal injury claim in Florida requires a thorough understanding of state statutes and legal doctrines. Under Florida's comparative fault rules, your recovery may be impacted if you are found partially at fault, though you can still recover damages as long as you are not primarily responsible. Additionally, Florida imposes strict deadlines, known as the statute of limitations, for filing personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits. Acting promptly helps ensure that crucial evidence, such as bar receipts, surveillance footage, and police reports, is preserved.
Jeffrey S. Altman and the legal team at Altman Law Firm are dedicated to advocating for injury victims with compassion and diligence. We handle the intricacies of investigating the crash, communicating with insurance adjusters, gathering medical records, and building a comprehensive case on your behalf. While no legal outcome can erase the trauma of a serious accident, holding the responsible parties accountable is a vital step toward securing the resources needed for your recovery.
Prioritize your health by seeking immediate medical attention. Contact local law enforcement so an official accident report can be filed, ensuring the driver's impairment is documented. If you are able, gather contact information from witnesses and take photos of the scene. Consult an attorney before speaking with insurance adjusters.
Under certain circumstances, Florida dram shop laws permit injury victims to hold a licensed vendor liable if they knowingly served alcohol to a minor or to a person who was habitually addicted to alcohol. An investigation is typically required to uncover these details.
Florida law sets specific time limits, or statutes of limitations, for filing personal injury and wrongful death claims. Because these deadlines can change or exceptions may apply, it is important to consult a legal professional as soon as possible to protect your rights.
A criminal case against the intoxicated driver is handled separately by the state prosecutor and focuses on penalizing the offender. A civil personal injury claim is pursued independently by you to seek financial compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Contact Altman Law Firm today to discuss your situation in a confidential consultation. Call (305) 373-3730.