Drunk driving accidents can have devastating consequences. Often, these accidents result in severe injuries, long-term disabilities, or even death. Unfortunately, while motorists understand the dangers associated with drunk driving, many still get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol, risking not only their lives but also the lives of other road users. When a drunk driver causes a crash, the law allows victims to seek compensation for their injuries and damages.
In Miami, Florida, drunk driving accidents are a common occurrence. If you have suffered injuries in a drunk driving-related accident in Miami, you may be wondering how much compensation you can recover. So, what is the average settlement for a drunk driving accident in Miami? Unfortunately, there isn’t an average settlement amount for a drunk driving accident in Miami. Every case is unique, and the compensation you may recover depends on various factors.
Factors Affecting Drunk Driving Accident Settlements
It’s difficult to estimate an average settlement for drunk driving accidents in Miami because no two cases are the same. Several factors unique to your case can influence how much you recover. Therefore, instead of focusing on finding a precise figure, you should take time to understand the different factors that can affect the amount of compensation in these cases.
The following are some of the factors that can influence the value of your Miami drunk driving accident case;
Nature and Severity of Your Injuries
The nature and severity of your injuries can have a significant effect on the value of your Miami drunk driving accident case. Generally, the more severe your injuries, the more compensation you can expect. Severe injuries such as traumatic brain injuries usually require extensive medical treatment, long-term care, and rehabilitation, and will generally result in greater compensation.
Economic and Non-Economic Damages
Compensation usually covers economic and non-economic damages in a drunk driving accident case. Your medical expenses, lost wages, repair costs, and other economic damages will be considered, as will your pain and suffering and other non-economic damages. In cases of severe injuries and significant property damage, you may be entitled to higher economic and non-economic damages.
Comparative Negligence
If the drunk driving accident bears full responsibility for your accident, you can expect to recover a high settlement. On the other hand, if you share any responsibility for your accident, you should expect a lower amount because your compensation may be reduced as per Florida’s comparative fault rule.
Insurance Coverage
The drunk driver’s insurance coverage can affect how much you receive. If they have enough insurance coverage, you can recover the full value of your claim. However, if they have limited coverage, it may cap how much you can claim, regardless of your damages. In such a case, you may need to seek compensation through your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (if you have it). If you carry UM/UIM insurance, you may be able to claim additional damages to make up for the difference.
Legal Representation
Having an experienced attorney can significantly increase your chances of obtaining the compensation you are owed. A skilled attorney can help you prove liability and negotiate with insurance companies.
Contact Us for Legal Help
Our Miami car accident attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm can help you seek the compensation you deserve after a drunk driving accident. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Ocala, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, West Palm Beach, Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, Naples, and Melbourne areas.
