Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious problem in St. Petersburg, Florida, and it leads to many car accidents every year. These accidents can cause serious injuries and even death. If you’ve been involved in a DUI accident in St. Petersburg, FL, or have suffered due to another driver’s poor decision, it’s important to know your rights and how you can seek justice. Reach out to Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group to learn more about your options during a free consultation with an experienced St. Petersburg DUI accident lawyer. You can contact us online or call (772) 569-8155.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at DUI accidents in St. Petersburg and how an experienced St. Petersburg DUI accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process.
How Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group Can Help After a DUI Accident in St. Petersburg
At Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a DUI accident can take on you and your family. With decades of combined experience and a proven track record of success, our team of dedicated St. Petersburg DUI accident attorneys are here to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
When you hire our St. Petersburg car accident lawyers, you can expect us to:
- Conduct thorough investigations to gather critical evidence
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Ensure all legal documents are correctly filed and deadlines are met
- Consult with experts to build a robust case
- Represent you aggressively in court if necessary
If you or a loved one has been involved in a DUI accident in St. Petersburg, Florida, contact our Sr. Petersburg personal injury lawyers today. Our experienced St. Petersburg personal injury attorneys are ready to help you navigate the legal system and fight for the compensation you deserve.
What Is a DUI Accident?
A DUI accident happens when a driver operates a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or both. In Florida, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. However, even lower levels of impairment can lead to accidents. DUI accidents are often more severe because impaired drivers have slower reaction times and less control over their vehicles.
The Dangers of DUI Driving in St. Petersburg
Driving under the influence is dangerous for both the driver and others on the road. In St. Petersburg, a bustling city with many tourists and residents, DUI accidents can occur in high-traffic areas like downtown or near popular attractions. Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s judgment, coordination, and reaction time, increasing the risk of causing an accident.
Here are some of the dangers of DUI driving:
- Increased risk of collisions: Impaired drivers are more likely to run red lights, swerve into other lanes, or fail to stop at stop signs.
- Severe injuries: DUI accidents often lead to more serious injuries because of the high speed and lack of control the impaired driver has.
- Fatalities: Tragically, DUI accidents can result in fatalities.
If you or someone you know has been in a DUI accident, it’s important to get the legal help you need as soon as possible.
Common Injuries in DUI Accidents
The injuries caused by DUI accidents can be life-changing.
Victims of DUI accidents may suffer from a range of injuries, including:
- Whiplash: A sudden stop or collision can cause the head to jerk forward and backward, leading to whiplash.
- Broken bones: The force of an impact can break bones in the arms, legs, or ribs.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): A blow to the head during a crash can result in a concussion or more serious brain injury.
- Spinal cord injuries: Accidents can lead to injuries in the spine, which may cause paralysis or other long-term disabilities.
- Internal injuries: Some accidents may cause damage to organs like the liver, kidneys, or lungs, leading to severe internal injuries.
Even if the injuries seem minor at first, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately after an accident to ensure you don’t have underlying injuries.
What to Do After a DUI Accident in St. Petersburg
If you’ve been involved in a DUI accident, there are several steps you should take to protect your health and your legal rights:
- Call 911: If you or anyone else is injured, contact emergency services right away. Police will also arrive to investigate the scene and create a report.
- Gather evidence: If possible, take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries. Write down the details of the accident and collect contact information from any witnesses.
- Do not admit fault: Even if you believe you might be partially responsible, avoid admitting fault at the scene. The police and your attorney can help determine liability later.
- Get medical treatment: Even if you don’t feel injured immediately, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Injuries from DUI accidents may not show symptoms right away.
A lawyer who specializes in DUI accidents can help you navigate the legal process, ensure you receive the compensation you deserve, and protect your rights.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a DUI Accident in Florida?
After a DUI accident, it’s important to act quickly. Florida has strict time limits, known as the statute of limitations, for filing personal injury claims. In most cases, you have two years to file a claim, but it’s best to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines.
Contact Our St. Petersburg DUI Accident Attorneys for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been involved in a DUI accident in St. Petersburg, FL, the experienced St. Petersburg DUI accident attorneys at Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group are here to help. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and provide legal advice. Our team is dedicated to fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve. Don’t wait – contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward recovery.
