Port St. Lucie DUI Accident Victim Lawyer

Every day, drunk driving accidents cause severe harm and heartbreak. A single reckless decision to drive intoxicated can leave others with life-altering injuries or take the life of a loved one.

At The Schiller Kessler Group, we’ve been helping victims for over three decades. If you or a loved one has been affected, our Port St. Lucie DUI accident victim lawyer is here to guide you.

Whether you’ve been hurt in a collision, our Port St. Lucie car accident lawyers are ready to assist you in holding the responsible party accountable. Reach out to us today for the help you need.

Understanding DUI and Drunk Driving

A DUI, or “driving under the influence,” refers to operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. In Florida, anyone with a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or higher is considered impaired. 

However, a person doesn’t have to be “drunk” to face DUI charges. Our Port St. Lucie personal injury lawyers are here to assist those affected by DUI accidents.

What does “In Actual Physical Control of a Vehicle” Mean?

This phrase means that a person can operate or control a vehicle, even if it isn’t moving. Sitting in the driver’s seat with the keys nearby may still count as being in control. Our lawyers can help clarify any questions you may have about your case.

Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Accident

Drunk driving accidents are unpredictable because the intoxicated driver can behave in various ways. They might be friendly, quiet, or even aggressive. No matter the behavior, it’s safest to let authorities handle the situation. 

Once the police arrive and assess the driver’s blood alcohol level, their report will provide important details for your legal case.

Here’s what to do after being involved in a drunk driving accident:

• Call 911 and emergency services: Report the accident immediately so authorities can respond and any injured parties can receive medical attention.
• Wait for the authorities: Do not approach the intoxicated driver. If possible, move your vehicle to a safer spot, take photos of the damage, and note any suspicious behavior, such as attempts to hide intoxication or switching seats.
• Collect eyewitness information: If witnesses are present, get their contact information and statements for later use.
• Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s important to have your body examined by a medical professional to identify any hidden injuries.

Finally, reach out to a drunk driving accident attorney in Port St. Lucie for further assistance with your legal case. We’re here to help you move forward.

How Our Port St. Lucie DUI Accident Victim Attorneys Help After a Drunk Driving Accident

At our firm, we’re here to support you after a drunk driving accident in Port St. Lucie. Our attorneys are ready to help you take legal steps to recover damages for your injuries or losses. 

Here’s how we can assist:

Understanding Civil vs. Criminal Cases

Drunk driving accidents are different from typical car crashes. While the state may file criminal charges against the intoxicated driver, victims have the right to seek financial recovery through a civil case. 

It’s important to remember that you won’t receive compensation from the criminal case alone, which is why hiring a civil attorney is essential.

Handling Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often work to protect their interests, which could mean offering you less than you deserve. We step in to handle all interactions with the insurance companies, making sure they treat you fairly and respectfully. 

Our goal is to help you focus on your recovery while we fight for what’s right.

Compensation Types for Port St. Lucie Drunk Driving Accident Victims

If you’ve been involved in a drunk driving accident, Florida law allows you to seek three types of compensation: economic, non-economic, and punitive damages. Let’s take a closer look at each.

Economic Damages

These cover the financial impact of the accident. Economic damages can include:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Reduced earning potential
• Transportation to appointments
• Vehicle repairs or replacement

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages address the emotional toll of the accident, such as:

• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment in life
• Loss of companionship
• Permanent injury or disfigurement

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages, also called exemplary damages, are awarded in cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct to penalize the drunk driver for reckless behavior and discourage others from doing the same.

Who Can Recover Damages in a Drunk Driving Accident?

If you’ve been injured in a drunk driving accident, you may be able to pursue legal action. 

Those eligible to recover damages include:

• Drivers: Whether a drunk driver struck you, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries.
• Passengers: If you were riding in a vehicle involved in the accident, you can file a claim for the harm you’ve suffered.
• Pedestrians: Drunk driving accidents can impact those on foot, and you can hold the at-fault driver accountable.
• Bicyclists: If you were on a bike when the crash occurred, you have legal options to recover damages for your injuries.
• Motorcyclists: Motorcyclists involved in these accidents may also pursue compensation for any harm caused.
• Property owners: If your property was damaged in the accident, you may be entitled to recover the cost of repairs or replacement.

If you’ve been affected by a drunk driving accident, it’s important to know your rights. We’re here to help you take the next steps.

The Schiller Kessler Group: Your Trusted DUI Accident Advocate

Being involved in a DUI accident can leave you facing serious challenges, and having the right legal support is important. At The Schiller Kessler Group, we are committed to helping victims take the necessary steps to protect their rights and move forward.

As a Port St. Lucie DUI accident victim lawyer, we’ve helped over 30,000 Florida injury victims in recovering what they are owed. Our team is dedicated to making sure your case is handled with care and professionalism.

Reach out to The Schiller Kessler Group today to learn how we can assist you in seeking justice and the recovery you deserve.