What to Do if You’re Injured by a Drunk Driver in Miami
Getting hit by a drunk driver is one of the most frightening and overwhelming experiences a person can face. Beyond the shock of the accident, you may be left with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and a lot of questions about what to do next.
At Stein Law, our Miami attorneys are committed to helping accident victims navigate the legal process and secure the compensation they deserve. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you’ve been injured by a drunk driver in Miami.
Step 1: Call 911 Immediately
The first priority is your safety. After a collision with a suspected drunk driver:
- Call 911 right away to request police and medical assistance.
- If possible, remain at the scene until officers arrive.
- Law enforcement will create a police report and may conduct sobriety tests on the other driver, which can serve as important evidence in your case.
Step 2: Seek Medical Attention
Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get checked by a doctor. Some injuries — such as concussions, internal bleeding, or whiplash — may not show symptoms right away. Medical records will also help document the connection between the accident and your injuries, strengthening your personal injury claim.
Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you’re physically able, take steps to preserve evidence:
- Photograph the vehicles, road conditions, traffic signals, and visible injuries.
- Collect names and contact information from witnesses.
- Note the other driver’s behavior — slurred speech, the smell of alcohol, or unsteady movements may all be useful later in your case.
Step 4: Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Florida is a no-fault insurance state, which means you’ll initially turn to your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage for medical expenses and lost wages. However, when injuries are serious, you may be able to pursue additional compensation through a personal injury claim against the drunk driver.
Step 5: Contact a Miami Personal Injury Lawyer
Drunk driving accident cases often involve criminal and civil proceedings. While the criminal case may punish the intoxicated driver, it does not automatically provide compensation for your medical bills, lost income, or pain and suffering.
A Miami drunk driving accident lawyer at Stein Law can:
- Investigate the crash and collect evidence of intoxication.
- Work with medical and financial experts to calculate damages.
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
- Take your case to court if necessary to pursue full compensation.
Damages You May Recover After a Drunk Driving Accident
Depending on your situation, you may be entitled to recover:
- Medical expenses (past, current, and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- In some cases, punitive damages may apply, designed to punish reckless behavior like drunk driving
Contact Stein Law Today
At Stein Law, we know how devastating a drunk driving accident can be. That’s why we provide every client with their attorney’s direct phone number for peace of mind and immediate access.
If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver in Miami, contact Stein Law today or complete our online contact form to schedule your free consultation.
FAQ
Can I sue a drunk driver in Florida?
Yes. If you suffered serious injuries, you may file a personal injury lawsuit against the drunk driver in addition to pursuing no-fault benefits.
Will the criminal DUI case help my injury claim?
Yes. Evidence from the DUI arrest or conviction can strengthen your civil claim, but you must still pursue compensation separately through the civil process.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In Florida, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
