Drunk driving car accidents in Orlando frequently result in severe consequences for everyone involved, ranging from physical injuries and fatalities to legal repercussions and financial burdens. Some injuries can lead to permanent disabilities, requiring ongoing medical care and rehabilitation, potentially affecting the victim’s quality of life for the long term.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a recent auto accident caused by a drunk driver, contact one of our attorneys at Colling Gilbert Wright to discuss your legal options during a free consultation. We could explain your legal rights, including the possibility of filing a personal injury claim against the drunk driver and potentially against the bars or restaurants that served them alcohol. Other lawyers and firms refer car accident cases to us because they trust our proven experience, dedication, and results.
Common Injuries After a Drunk Driving Car Crash
Drunk driving auto collisions in Orlando often result in more serious injuries than other types of car accidents due to the impaired judgment of the intoxicated driver. Alcohol diminishes a driver’s ability to make quick decisions and react to hazards on the road. This can lead to delayed braking, improper lane changes, and a higher likelihood of collisions. Alcohol can lead to a false sense of confidence and reduce inhibitions, causing drivers to take unnecessary risks, such as speeding, weaving between lanes, and driving while distracted.
These behaviors can have severe consequences. Drunk drivers are more likely to be involved in head-on collisions, rollovers, and accidents with pedestrians—crashes that often result in severe or even fatal injuries. The impact of a drunk driving accident can cause traumatic brain injuries, leading to cognitive, emotional, and physical impairments. You may also suffer organ damage and internal bleeding, often requiring emergency surgery and long-term medical care.
Whiplash, strains, sprains, and ligament tears occur frequently and may cause pain, mobility issues, and, in some cases, chronic discomfort. More severe injuries—such as spinal cord damage, paralysis, traumatic brain injuries, and broken bones—are also common. In addition to physical pain and suffering, you may experience emotional and psychological distress, including anxiety and depression, which can have long-lasting effects.
Important Steps To Take After an Accident With a Drunk Driver
After being hit by a drunk driver in Orlando, your immediate priorities should be ensuring your safety and seeking medical attention. If there are injuries, call 911 for emergency medical assistance. If you can safely move your vehicle off the road, do so. In the state of Florida, you must report accidents involving a suspected drunk driver to law enforcement.
The police will document the scene, gather evidence, and potentially conduct field sobriety tests on the other driver. Even if you feel fine, it is essential to have a medical professional check you for injuries. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and early medical attention is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.
If you are able, and with assistance from the police, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Preserve any evidence from the accident scene, such as photos including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
Next, consult with a personal injury lawyer. An attorney can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and pursue compensation. They can also work to preserve evidence related to the drunk driver’s intoxication, such as police reports, field sobriety test results, and other relevant documentation.
Factors That Can Impact Compensation in a Drunk Driving Wreck
Several factors can impact compensation for injuries after a drunk driving collision in Orlando, including the severity of injuries and the extent of both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include quantifiable costs such as medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle damage.
Non-economic damages are harder to quantify but include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and a diminished quality of life. The severity of injuries significantly impacts the value of these non-economic damages.
In cases where the drunk driver’s conduct was particularly reckless—such as having a history of drunk driving—punitive damages may be awarded. These are not meant to compensate you for your losses, but rather to punish the at-fault party.
Contact an Orlando Car Accident Attorney for Help With a Drunk Driving Case
Dealing with insurance companies in the aftermath of a drunk driving car accident in Orlando can be challenging. At Colling Gilbert Wright, our attorneys have extensive experience investigating drunk driving car accident claims and negotiating with insurance adjusters. We could help ensure you receive a fair settlement offer.
We could provide support and guidance during this difficult time, handling all necessary legal paperwork and documentation so you can focus on your recovery. It is important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after an accident caused by a drunk driver. Contact us today to request your free legal consultation and discuss the next steps in your case.