Who Pays If I Was Hurt in a Drunk Driving Accident?

Unfortunately, drunk drivers are still fairly common in Pensacola and the rest of the Sunshine State, causing accidents, injuries, and tragically avoidable deaths. Though instances were down from 2017, in 2018 there were 3,133 deaths on Florida roads – a staggering 814 from drunk driving. Though a drunk driver’s negligent and criminal behavior will almost guarantee they are at fault and liable for our injuries, you may have other parties that owe you compensation as well.

Drivers and Insurance Companies

The at-fault driver’s insurance company is usually the source of compensation for your injuries. However, other parties may also be responsible for the damages you suffered. You may be able to recover from a drunk driver’s personal assets in some cases. If you were involved in a multi-car collision and only one of the drivers was intoxicated, you may still be able to recover from a sober driver who was partly to blame under comparative negligence. Also, if you have underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage through your own insurer, they may owe you compensation if your damages exceed the limit of the drunk driver’s insurance policy.

Dram Shop Laws

Florida has enacted a limited dram shop law, so if you can prove an establishment or served alcohol to either a minor or a person “habitually addicted” to alcohol, they may be liable for any injury or damage caused by that person. Social hosts can be charged with providing alcohol to a minor, but they aren’t liable for serving alcohol at a private event or party – even if they’re aware the person in question is “habitually addicted.”

Speak to an Attorney

Being injured or losing a loved one in a tragic, avoidable drunk driving accident is a traumatic experience that completely changes a victim’s life. To take the first step towards holding the responsible parties accounting, contact the Pensacola car accident attorneys at Stevenson Klotz right away. Call us at (850) 706-4226 or complete our online Contact Page to schedule your no-obligation case evaluation today. The initial consultation is free, and you pay nothing until we win your case. Let us fight for you so you can focus on your recovery.