Despite the constant warnings against drunk driving, many individuals still get behind the wheel of a car or truck after having too much to drink. When drunk drivers cause accidents, the resulting injuries can be debilitating and sometimes permanent.
If you sustained injuries in a recent Miami drunk driving collision, the legal team at The Russo Firm will thoroughly investigate your accident circumstances, gather documentation, and file a claim or lawsuit on your behalf. We will then aggressively pursue the compensation you need to become whole again.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Miami drunk driving attorney, please call us at (786) 688-2800 or contact us online today.
Schedule a Free Initial Consultation Today!
Miami Drunk Driving Guide
- Why Choose Us for Your Miami Drunk Driving Accident Case?
- How Much is a Third-Party Miami Drunk Driving Accident Case Worth?
- What Are the Most Common Locations for Drunk Driving Accidents in Miami?
- What Are the Most Common Types of Accidents that Drunk Drivers Cause in Miami?
- Most Common Injuries in a Miami Drunk Driving Crash
- Fighting the Insurance Company in a Miami Drunk Driving Accident Case
- Important Steps to Take after a Drunk Driving Accident in Miami
- Speak to a Knowledgeable Miami Drunk Driving Lawyer Today
Why Choose Us for Your Miami Drunk Driving Accident Case?
When it comes to maximizing your compensation for injuries in a drunk driving accident, you want a knowledgeable legal team to advocate for you aggressively.
Look no further than the Miami drunk driving accident attorneys at The Russo Firm. We have extensive experience not just with successfully resolving personal injury cases but also with litigating them to a favorable resolution in the state court system. We are not afraid to fight the insurance company in court if that step becomes necessary.
You can view our most recent case results and client testimonials on this site. Our corporate office is conveniently located at 1221 Brickell Avenue, Suite 900, Miami, FL 33131.
How Much is a Third-Party Miami Drunk Driving Accident Case Worth?
If you suffered an injury in a drunk driving accident in Miami, Florida, and you are pursuing a third-party claim or lawsuit, the value of your case will depend on several factors.
In a third-party claim, you’re seeking compensation from someone other than your own insurance company – typically the at-fault driver or their insurer. The value of your case will depend on the extent of your injuries, the effects on your life, and the specifics of the accident.
Generally, you can seek compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: This includes all costs related to treating your injuries, such as hospital bills, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and follow-up doctor visits. If you require future medical treatment, these costs can also be factored in.
- Lost income: If you cannot work due to your injuries, you can claim compensation for lost income. This includes both past income and any future earnings you may lose if your injury affects your ability to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for this type of loss accounts for the physical and emotional pain resulting from the accident and your injuries. It can also include the mental stress and loss of life enjoyment resulting from your injuries.
In cases involving drunk driving, you may also qualify for punitive damages to punish the at-fault driver for intentional misconduct or gross negligence.
The overall value of your claim will depend on the severity of your injuries, the extent of property damage, and the amount of insurance coverage available. For example, if you sustained life-changing injuries, the value of your case may result in more compensation than if it caused minor injuries.
What Are the Most Common Locations for Drunk Driving Accidents in Miami?
Drunk driving car accidents can happen anywhere, but in Miami, certain areas and roads are more prone to these types of incidents due to heavy traffic, nightlife, and busy urban environments. Some locations are particularly at high risk for accidents involving drunk drivers.
Here are a few of the most common areas where these accidents are more likely to occur:
- South Beach and Ocean Drive: South Beach is known for its nightlife, and Ocean Drive is a popular spot with bars, clubs, and restaurants. Drivers who have been drinking often end up on these busy streets, increasing the risk of accidents. The combination of pedestrians, bikers, and vehicles can make the area particularly hazardous late at night and into the early morning hours.
- I-95 (Interstate 95): This major highway runs through the heart of Miami and is a key route for commuters, tourists, and locals. Because it spans such a large area, it sees a high traffic volume, especially during rush hours. Drunk drivers on I-95 are a serious concern due to the high speeds and heavy traffic, increasing the chances of serious accidents.
- U.S. 1 (South Dixie Highway): US-1 is another busy road that runs through Miami, connecting various neighborhoods. This highway is often congested, and drunk drivers who take this route put themselves and others at risk. The area near Coconut Grove and Coral Gables is particularly known for heavy traffic and nightlife, making it a hotspot for DUI accidents.
- Calle Ocho (SW 8th Street): Known for its vibrant cultural scene and nightlife, Calle Ocho in Little Havana is a popular area for bars and restaurants. Drunk driving accidents occur frequently here, especially late at night, when people are leaving parties or events.
- Brickell Avenue: As a financial district and a hub for restaurants and bars, Brickell Avenue sees a lot of traffic, especially after dark. With a mix of tourists and locals, this area has a high risk of accidents involving intoxicated drivers.
What Are the Most Common Types of Accidents that Drunk Drivers Cause in Miami?
Drunk driving accidents in Miami, Florida, can result in a wide variety of crashes, each with different consequences. When drivers are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, their judgment, reaction times, and motor skills are impaired, making them more likely to cause certain types of accidents.
Here are some of the most common types of accidents that drunk drivers in Miami cause:
- Rear-End Collisions: One of the most common accidents resulting from drunk drivers is a rear-end collision. Impaired drivers may fail to notice when traffic slows down or stops, leading them to crash into the car in front of them. This is especially common in congested areas like downtown Miami or on highways such as I-95, where traffic can change suddenly.
- Head-On Collisions: Drunk drivers are also more likely to drift into oncoming traffic, especially when driving at high speeds on roads like U.S. 1 or I-95. A head-on collision is one of the most dangerous types of accidents, as it often results in severe injuries or fatalities for both parties involved. Impaired drivers may not realize they’re crossing into the wrong lane or may not have the reaction time to avoid a crash.
- T-bone Accidents (Side-Impact Collisions): A T-bone accident occurs when one vehicle crashes into the side of another, forming a T shape. Drunk drivers may fail to stop at red lights or stop signs, leading to these types of accidents. Areas with heavy traffic and intersections, such as in downtown Miami or near South Beach, are common locations for T-bone accidents due to impaired drivers.
- Pedestrian Accidents: Drunk drivers are more likely to hit pedestrians, particularly in busy areas like South Beach, Little Havana, and Brickell. Impaired drivers may not notice crosswalks, traffic signals, or pedestrians walking in the street.
- Hit and Run Accidents: Drunk drivers are often more likely to flee the scene of an accident, either due to panic or fear of legal consequences. Hit and run accidents can require experienced lawyers to resolve.
Most Common Injuries in a Miami Drunk Driving Crash
Victims of drunk driving accidents in Miami, Florida, can suffer a wide range of injuries, some of which can be severe and life-changing. Because drunk drivers are impaired in their ability to react quickly or make good decisions, accidents often happen at high speeds or in dangerous conditions, leading to serious harm.
Here are some of the most common types of injuries that victims may sustain:
- Head and Brain Injuries: One of the most serious types of injuries in any car accident is damage to the head and brain. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur even in seemingly minor collisions. Symptoms may include memory loss, difficulty concentrating, headaches, dizziness, or permanent cognitive impairments. In severe cases, a TBI can lead to long-term disability or death.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Injuries to the spine are also common in drunk driving accidents, especially in high-speed crashes. Spinal cord damage can result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity of the injury. Victims may lose the ability to walk, control their limbs, or even breathe without assistance if the injury is severe enough.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Broken bones are common in car accidents, especially in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. These injuries can be painful and may require surgery, physical therapy, or long recovery times. In some cases, fractures may lead to permanent mobility issues or long-term pain.
- Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries: Whiplash occurs when the neck is rapidly jerked forward and backward in a crash. This injury can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the neck and shoulders. Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and ligament tears, can also be common – especially in low-speed collisions.
In addition to physical injuries, many victims of drunk driving accidents suffer from emotional and psychological trauma. This can include anxiety, depression, PTSD, or fear of driving. Therapy or counseling may need to help victims cope with the emotional aftermath of the crash.
Each of these injuries can lead to long-term medical treatment, financial hardship, and emotional distress.
Fighting the Insurance Company in a Miami Drunk Driving Accident Case
If you’ve suffered an injury in a drunk driving accident in Miami, fighting the insurance company for fair compensation can be challenging. Insurance companies are often focused on minimizing payouts, and they may try to pressure you into settling quickly for less than what you deserve.
However, with the right legal support, you can protect your rights and fight for the compensation you need.
- One of the first steps after an accident is to file a claim with your own insurance company, including Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. In Florida, PIP covers medical expenses and lost income regardless of who is at fault in the accident. However, PIP has limitations, such as caps on coverage, which may not fully cover the costs of serious injuries.
- Since the drunk driver is at fault, you may also have a third-party claim against their insurance company. This is where an experienced Miami drunk driving lawyer can be invaluable. At The Russo Firm, we can investigate the details of your accident, gather evidence (such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements), and build a strong case.
- We’ll handle all communication with the insurance companies, including negotiating a fair settlement. If the insurance company refuses to offer an adequate amount, we can take the case to court to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and any long-term effects of your injuries.
Throughout the process, we’ll fight to protect your interests, so you don’t settle for less than what you deserve. With our legal knowledge and experience, you can focus on your recovery while we work to hold the responsible parties accountable.
Important Steps to Take after a Drunk Driving Accident in Miami
Following a drunk driving crash in Miami, Florida, to protect your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve:
- Gather Evidence: Gather and keep important evidence, including photos of the scene, your vehicle, and any visible injuries. Keep contact details from any witnesses and make sure to obtain a copy of the police report – especially if the other driver was arrested for DUI.
- Complete Your Medical Treatment: Follow your doctor’s orders and complete all necessary treatments, even if you feel better. Insurance companies may use gaps in treatment to argue that your injuries aren’t as serious as you claim.
- Consult a Miami Drunk Driving Lawyer: At The Russo Firm, we can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for all of your accident-related losses.
Speak to a Knowledgeable Miami Drunk Driving Lawyer Today
If you recently suffered injuries in an accident that a drunk driver caused, the legal team at The Russo Firm is ready to help you. We can aggressively fight for your interests by negotiating with insurance company adjusters or litigating your case to
a favorable resolution in the state court system.
For your free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled Miami personal injury attorney, please call us at (786) 688-2800 or contact us online.
Schedule a Free Initial Consultation Today!
The Russo Firm – Miami Office
1221 Brickell Ave Suite 900
Miami, FL 33131
Phone: (786) 688-2800