Operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated (aka drunk driving) is a blatant disregard for the safety and welfare for other motorists on the roadway. This is not just the opinion of Thacker and Mulvihill, PLLC, the State of Florida sees it the same way.
In Florida an individual is considered driving under the influence if they are operating a motor vehicle under the influence of an intoxicating substance to the extent that the driver’s normal faculties are impaired.
In 2023 there were 969 traffic fatalities in the Florida related to alcohol and/or drug impaired driving. These numbers are staggering and alarming.
The dangers drunk drivers pose on law-abiding drivers is not taken lightly by the State of Florida. In addition to the strict penalties imposed on convicted drunk drivers, in Florida if a drunk driver causes a motor vehicle accident that results in injuries to another individual, the injured party may attempt to collect punitive damages from the at-fault drunk driver.
In order to collect punitive damages against a drunk driver that caused bodily injury to you or a loved one, it is important to hire a skilled and experienced personal injury attorney. There are several nuanced procedures that must be followed and properly pled in the lawsuit against the drunk driver. An experienced attorney will be able to guide you through the legal process and advise you of your rights as a victim of drunk driving.
If you or a loved one were injured from an accident, please contact us at Thacker and Mulvihill, PLLC for a free consultation. Care, Compassion, and Preparation: Florida Personal Injury Law As It Should Be.