Miami Lakes Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Miami Dade County Drunk Driving Statistics

Miami Dade County is one of the most populous counties in Florida and, unfortunately, it also has one of the highest rates of drunk driving accidents in the state. In 2020, there were 2,843 alcohol-related crashes in Miami-Dade County, resulting in 899 injuries and 51 fatalities. These numbers are alarming, and they demonstrate the need for increased awareness and enforcement of drunk driving laws in the area.

Miami Lakes Drunk Driving Statistics

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, there were a total of 884 alcohol-related crashes in Miami Lakes from 2011 to 2020. These crashes resulted in 239 injuries and 24 fatalities.

While the number of alcohol-related crashes has decreased over the years in Miami Lakes, even one incident is too many. It’s important for all drivers to understand the dangers of drunk driving and to make responsible decisions when it comes to drinking and driving. The consequences of a single alcohol-related crash can be devastating for everyone involved.

I Was Involved in a Drunk Driving Accident in Miami Lakes: What Should I Do?

If you’ve been involved in a drunk driving accident, it’s important to take the following steps:

1. Call 911: Don’t wait! If you’ve been involved in a car accident, call 911 immediately. The police will arrive at the scene and assess the situation, get medical help if anyone is injured, gather evidence, and file a report of the incident.
2. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t think you’re injured, it’s important to seek medical attention after a drunk driving accident. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or head injuries, may not show symptoms right away. Seeking medical attention can also provide documentation of your injuries, which can be important if you decide to file a personal injury clause Florida Statute 627.736 stipulates that, subject to certain restrictions and exclusions, you have 14 days to seek medical attention if you want to be eligible for personal injury protection benefits.
3. Gather Information: Get the contact and insurance information of all drivers involved in the accident, as well as the names and contact information of any witnesses. Take photos of the scene, including any damage to vehicles or property, as well as any injuries you sustained.
4. Contact The Ward Law Group: It’s important to contact an experienced drunk driving accident attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights. An attorney can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and file a personal injury claim if necessary. 

If you or someone you know has been involved in a drunk driving accident, contact The Ward Law Group for experienced legal representation. We are committed to helping victims of drunk driving accidents recover the compensation they deserve. 

Most Common Drunk Driving Accidents 

Drunk driving accidents can take many forms, and the severity of the accident can vary depending on a number of factors.  Here are some of the most common types of drunk driving accidents which include traditional vehicles, trucks, motorcycles, and even ATVs:

• Rear-End Collisions: A rear-end collision occurs when one vehicle collides with the vehicle in front of it. This type of accident can occur when a drunk driver is following too closely or fails to stop in time.
• Head-On-Collisions: This type of car accident is called a head-on-collision because it occurs when two cars crash front to front with each other. This type of accident can occur when a drunk driver swerves into oncoming traffic or crosses the center line.
• Side-Impact Collisions: A side-impact collision occurs when one vehicle hits the side of another vehicle. This type of accident can occur at intersections or when a drunk driver fails to yield to another vehicle.
• Single-Vehicle Accidents: A single-vehicle accident occurs when a vehicle crashes without hitting another vehicle. This type of accident can occur when a drunk driver loses control of their vehicle or hits a fixed object such as a tree or pole.
• Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents: Drunk driving accidents can also involve pedestrians and bicyclists. These accidents can be particularly devastating, as pedestrians and bicyclists are vulnerable to serious injuries or fatalities in a collision.

It’s important to remember that all types of drunk driving accidents can have serious consequences. Even a seemingly minor accident can result in injuries, property damage, and legal consequences for the drunk driver and the victims involved. If you or someone you know has been involved in a drunk driving accident, it’s important to seek legal representation to protect your rights as soon as possible.

Drunk Driving Accident Injuries in Miami Lakes   

Drunk driving accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, ranging from minor cuts and bruises to more severe injuries that can have long-term consequences. Some common types of injuries that can occur in DUI accidents include:

• Head Injuries: Head injuries are common in car accidents, and they can be particularly severe in DUI accidents. Traumatic brain injuries, skull fractures, and concussions are all possible in a DUI accident.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Injuries caused to the spinal cord during a car accident can life impacting consequences and can result in loss of sensation, paralysis and other complications. These injuries can be particularly severe in accidents where the car is hit from behind or where the victim is ejected from the car.
• Broken Bones: Broken bones are common in car accidents, and they can be particularly severe in DUI accidents. Fractures of the arms, legs, hips, and ribs are all possible in a DUI accident.
• Internal Injuries: Internal injuries can be difficult to diagnose and can be life-threatening if left untreated. These injuries can include damage to several organs in your body and can range from temporary to permanent damages, which could require ongoing treatment and care.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Soft tissue injuries can include sprains, strains, and contusions. These injuries can be painful and can cause long-term discomfort.
• Emotional Trauma: DUI accidents can also cause emotional trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.

If you’ve been involved in a Drunk driving accident in Miami Lakes, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you don’t think you’ve been seriously injured, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional. In addition to seeking medical attention, it’s also important to contact an experienced team of lawyers who can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.

Florida Drunk Driving Laws

Florida has strict laws when it comes to driving under the influence of alcohol. The state’s legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% for drivers over the age of 21. For drivers under 21, there is a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol, meaning any amount of alcohol in their system is considered illegal.

If a driver is found to be driving with a BAC of 0.08% or higher, they can be charged with a DUI (driving under the influence). A DUI is a serious offense that can result in fines, license suspension, and even jail time. If the driver’s BAC is 0.15% or higher, the penalties are even more severe.

Florida Statutes Governing Accidents Caused by Drunk Drivers

Florida law recognizes that drunk driving is a serious problem that can cause devastating consequences. As a result, the state has several statutes that govern car accidents caused by drunk drivers. Some of these statutes include:

• Florida Statute 316.193: This statute defines the offense of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It outlines the penalties for a first, second, and third DUI offense, as well as the penalties for a DUI resulting in property damage, injury, or death.
• Florida Statute 316.1932: This statute outlines the use of ignition interlock devices for DUI offenders. An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer that is installed in a vehicle and requires the driver to blow into it before the vehicle will start. This device is designed to prevent a driver from operating their vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.
• Florida Statute 768.736: This statute governs the recovery of damages in personal injury cases. It states that a plaintiff can recover damages from a defendant who caused their injury, even if the plaintiff was partially at fault. This means that if a drunk driver caused an accident that resulted in your injury, you may be able to recover damages from them even if you were partially at fault for the accident.

There is one key difference between the average car accident and a drunk driving accident: a drunk driving accident is entirely preventable. If you’ve been involved in an accident involving a driver who was driving under the influence, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages. The damages that can be awarded in a DUI accident case can include:

1. Medical Expenses: You may be entitled to compensation for any medical expenses related to your injuries, including hospital bills, doctor’s visits, and physical therapy.
2. Lost Wages: If your injuries prevented you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for any lost wages or income.
3. Property Damage: You may be entitled to compensation for any damage to your vehicle or other property because of the accident.
4. Pain and Suffering: You may be entitled to compensation for any physical or emotional pain and suffering you experienced as a result of the accident.
5. Punitive Damages: In some cases, the court may award punitive damages in addition to other damages. Punitive damages are meant to punish the drunk driver for their reckless behavior and to serve as a deterrent to others.

What Are the Disadvantages of Not Hiring a Skilled Miami Lakes DUI Accident Attorney?

There are several potential disadvantages of not having a qualified personal injury attorney assist you with an intricate DUI accident case, including:

1. Limited Knowledge of the Law: The legal system can be complex and confusing, especially if you don’t have any legal training or experience. Without an attorney, you may not fully understand your rights or the legal process, which could hurt your case.
2. Difficulty Gathering Evidence: Gathering evidence is a critical part of any DUI accident case, but it can be challenging if you don’t know where to look or what to look for. An experienced attorney can help you collect the evidence you need to build a strong case.
3. Less Effective Negotiation: Negotiating with insurance companies and other parties involved in the accident can be challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with the negotiation process. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf and help you get the best possible settlement.
4. Risk of Accepting a Low Settlement: Without an attorney, you may be more likely to accept a low settlement offer from an insurance company, simply because you don’t know what your case is worth. An attorney can help you determine the value of your case and negotiate for a fair settlement.
5. Risk of Losing the Case: Without an attorney, you may be at a disadvantage in court. You may not know how to present your case effectively, and you may not have the legal resources to fight a strong defense. An attorney can help you build a strong case and increase your chances of winning.

Not having an attorney during a DUI accident case can significantly impact the outcome of your case. It’s essential to have an experienced attorney on your side to protect your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve.

Why Should I Hire The Ward Law Group?

Car accident cases involving intoxicated drivers can be complex, which is why you should hire an attorney who knows the laws and regulations related to car accidents in Miami Lakes caused by drunk drivers. At The Ward Law Group, we understand a DUI accident can have severe consequences and devastate your life. Our goal is to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve and obtain the help you need to recover from your injuries. Our Miami personal injury lawyers specializing in drunk driving claims can assist you in navigating the legal process while protecting your rights and fighting for your compensation. From gathering evidence to negotiating a settlement, The Ward Law Group has the knowledge and experience to help you every step of the way.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a DUI accident in Miami Lakes, don’t wait, contact The Ward Law Group today for a free consultation. Our attorneys are here to help you get the compensation you deserve and hold drunk drivers accountable for their negligence. Call us today at 855-DOLOR-55!