A collision with an impaired driver can shatter your sense of safety in an instant. Whether you were driving along Okeechobee Boulevard, commuting on I-95, or walking near the nightlife venues of Clematis Street, the aftermath of an alcohol-related crash is often physically painful and emotionally overwhelming. At Altman Law Firm, we stand by victims and families in West Palm Beach, helping them navigate the complex legal path toward recovery and holding negligent parties accountable.
Driving under the influence is a serious violation of public safety. In Florida, when a driver chooses to operate a vehicle while impaired, they can be held civilly liable for the damages they cause. This goes beyond criminal charges; civil claims focus on compensating the injured party for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Altman Law Firm thoroughly investigates these incidents, gathering evidence such as police reports, breathalyzer results, and witness statements to build a strong foundation for your claim.
Sometimes, the driver is not the only party responsible for an alcohol-related crash. Under Florida Statute Section 768.125, also known as the dram shop law, an establishment that sells or serves alcohol can be held liable under very specific circumstances. This applies if they willfully and unlawfully serve alcohol to a minor under 21, or knowingly serve a person habitually addicted to alcohol. We examine the details surrounding where the driver was drinking before the crash to determine if a local bar, restaurant, or social host in West Palm Beach shares responsibility for your injuries.
Florida operates under a modified comparative negligence system. This means that if you are found to be more than 50% at fault for an accident, you are barred from recovering damages. For any percentage of fault under that threshold, your recovery is reduced proportionally. Additionally, Florida law imposes strict deadlines for filing personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits. Navigating these legal timelines and defense tactics requires a diligent approach to ensure your rights are protected before time runs out.
Your immediate safety and health are the top priorities. Call 911 so that law enforcement can document the scene and medical personnel can assess your injuries. If you are physically able, take photos of the vehicles, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries. Avoid discussing the details of the crash or accepting blame at the scene, and seek medical attention even if you feel fine, as some injuries manifest hours or days later.
In Florida, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims based on negligence is two years from the date of the accident. If the crash resulted in a tragic loss of life, a wrongful death claim also generally must be filed within two years. Because gathering evidence and building a case takes time, it is advisable to consult with a legal professional as soon as possible.
Yes. Criminal cases and civil personal injury claims are entirely separate legal proceedings with different standards of proof. A criminal prosecution focuses on punishing the driver for violating state laws, whereas a civil claim focuses on compensating you for your losses. Even if the driver is acquitted or the charges are dropped, you may still pursue a civil claim for negligence.
Yes. Altman Law Firm represents injured clients throughout South Florida, including West Palm Beach and the broader Palm Beach County area. Jeffrey S. Altman is dedicated to helping victims of negligence across the region navigate their recovery process.
Victims of alcohol-related accidents may seek compensation for economic damages, such as past and future medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost income. Non-economic damages, including physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life, may also be pursued. In some egregious cases involving drunk driving, punitive damages may be considered to punish the offender and deter similar behavior.
If you or a loved one has been injured by an impaired driver in West Palm Beach, contact Altman Law Firm today to schedule a free, confidential consultation to discuss your options. Call (305) 373-3730.