Recovery After A Drunk Driving Accident

It is impossible to argue about the serious nature of accidents caused by drunk drivers. The news is filled with stories about accidents caused by those behind the wheel after having had too much to drink. It is equally difficult to argue with the fact that when someone is injured as a result of someone else’s drunk driving, they will be entitled to recover for their damages from that person.

A Tool In Preventing Drunk Driving Accidents – Ignition Interlock Devices

The question arises, however, of what could have been done to prevent the accident from happening in the first place and causing its victims to have to endure the painful and often lengthy recovery process. In Florida, the law provides for use of an ignition interlock device (IID). Beginning with a driver’s first offense for a DUI in which they have a blood alcohol level of .08% or higher, a judge may order the driver to have an IID for at least six months, though it is not required at that level. In cases in which the driver’s blood alcohol level is at least .15%, however, the judge is required to enter an order for use of an IID for at least that six month period, even for first time offenders. Where the offender is on their second offense, the requirement is increased from six months to at least one full year – those found guilty of drunk driving for a third time will be ordered to use an IID for at least two years.

Let Us Assist You with Your Case

Despite the laws against and the penalties for conviction of drunk driving, it is doubtful that we will reach the point at which these tragic occurrences no longer happen. While accidents continue to occur due to drunk driving, innocent victims will continue to suffer injuries and losses. If you have  been involved in an auto accident due to someone else’s negligence and have suffered injuries as a result, the Miami attorneys at the office of Alan Goldfarb, P.A. can help you get the results you are entitled to receive. Whether your losses include costs for present medical expenses or those anticipated in the future, lost wages , even expenses due to pain and suffering stemming from the accident, at the office of Alan Goldfarb, P.A. our goal is to help you make a full recovery and we will work tirelessly towards that end. Our legal professionals have helped other accident victims get the compensation they deserved and want to do the same for you. Contact us now to set up your no cost, no obligation appointment.

Resources:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.193.html

wsvn.com/news/local/driver-accused-of-injuring-south-florida-principal-while-intoxicated-faces-judge/

A Miami area high school principal has set an impressive example in how to be thankful for what you have and not dwell on what you have lost. The principal, who lost both of his legs in a horrible accident months ago, took the opportunity to thank the folks who helped him after the tragic incident; he chose to not focus on the negative, and instead, look forward to his continued recovery. The man, who was struck by an allegedly drunk driver as he coached his son’s little league team, required a double amputation along with other surgeries and medical procedures after the accident. He is still undergoing therapy and likely will for some time.

Losing A Limb

The need for an amputation can be the result of an accident – sometimes a limb is damaged so badly during an accident that there is no way to save it and it must be removed. There are, though, a number of other situations that may lead to an amputation, including poor circulation to the limb, infections that cannot be successfully treated or controlled, tumors, severe damage to the tissue from extreme burns or frostbite, or other medical conditions.

Life After Amputation

Losing a leg is something that many of us cannot even imagine – and losing both legs is beyond comprehension. This tragic loss is something that many accident victims are forced to deal with, however difficult it may be. After the initial injury and surgical procedure, a common part of the recovery process is often learning to live with a prosthetic limb. Advances in medical technology have made things we grew up seeing in futuristic movies a reality and, as difficult as it may be to imagine, returning to a somewhat normal life is now possible thanks to those advancements in science. The beginning steps, however, can be the most difficult. Immediately after an amputation, it is crucial that steps are taken to ensure the proper fit of the prosthesis and the proper healing of the amputation site. Wearing the prosthesis for gradually increasing periods of time is usually done to help ease the patient into full rehabilitation and recovery.

Relearning The Basics

One of the components of post-amputation rehabilitation is learning to perform basic functions and activities of daily life with a prosthetic limb. Occupational therapy consists of learning to do household chores, self-care tasks such as bathing, getting dressed, and using the toilet and tub, and putting on/taking off the prosthesis. This rehabilitation helps to return the amputee to a more independent and active life and improves their safety. Learning to be mobile again and maneuver different types of settings such as stairs, uneven walking surfaces, and curbs is also a part of the rehabilitation process for those who are learning to live with a prosthetic limb.

Contact Us Today for Help

If you have suffered an accident that resulted in an amputation, you are likely facing a lengthy and arduous recovery and rehabilitation process. You deserve to be compensated for your loss and for the process you will be facing as you move forward from your accident. The Miami attorneys at the office of Alan Goldfarb, P.A. have helped clients in the Miami area with injuries just like yours. Our attorneys are experienced with the types of issues involved in an amputation case and can help you get the compensation you need. Contact us today to enlist the help of our legal professionals today and get the results you deserve.

Resource:

miami.cbslocal.com/2016/11/18/principal-maimed-in-accident-meets-those-who-saved-his-life/?e=np7Kwr3CeQLOXQ

How Does Florida Define Drunk Driving?

Many drivers may have a glass of wine or a beer while out for dinner or drinks. Would this type of social drinking lead to a DUI citation or conviction in Florida? It depends on your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). Florida law states that a person is driving while intoxicated when they have a BAC at or above .08.

DUIs have Criminal and Civil Consequences

Criminal consequences for DUI are very serious. Under Florida law, first time DUI offenders may be sentenced up to six months in jail and/or a possible $2,000 fine. First time offenders may also be required to serve community service, probation, or complete an alcohol treatment program. If a driver causes an accident when driving while intoxicated, then they may also face criminal charges for any injuries or property damaged in the accident. While they are different, civil law allows an accident victim hold a driver responsible for the damage they caused.

DUI Accident Victims can Recover Losses

An accident victim can always seek compensation for losses after an accident. This is true even when the other driver was not intoxicated. An accident victim can recover for losses under Florida law by proving the other driver was negligent. Generally, demonstrating negligence under Florida requires the victim prove existence of a duty, breach of duty, causation and harm. Demonstrating duty and breach of duty can be straightforward since every driver has a duty to abide by DUI laws and not drive while intoxicated. Harm is often not difficult to prove as drunk drivers often cause devastating injuries to pedestrians and other drivers regularly. These injuries may result in broken bones, disfiguring burns or permanent disabilities. A good lawyer will help an accident victim develop a good strategy for proving the other elements of their claim.

Seek Help from an Attorney

While we often think of criminal penalties associated with drinking and driving, there are very serious civil consequences for those who injure others. Speaking to a lawyer about a potential legal claim may be the best way for a victim of a drunk driving accident to ensure they are able to fully recover from their losses. It is important that you get the best help for your case. Speak with the Miami car accident attorneys at the office of Alan Goldfarb, P.A. We can help you determine the best strategy to seek recovery for your injuries. Please contact us today to schedule an initial appointment.