DRUNK DRIVING ACCIDENT LAWYER IN ST. PETERSBURG

The shortest answer is: it depends. The complexity of the case is one key factor that could influence the timeline for resolving it. In most cases, if the circumstances surrounding the accident are straightforward and liability is clear, the lawsuit may be resolved more quickly.
 
However, if there are disputes over fault or conflicting evidence, the case may take longer to settle because both parties must first establish the facts before a settlement is even considered.
 
The severity of injuries sustained will also play a role in deciding when such a case would be settled. Typically, the more severe the injuries, the longer it would take to resolve such a case because you or your loved one will need extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, and you need to know how much this will cost in order to maximize your claim. That also explains why most attorneys take time to file a claim for compensation because they want to factor in every possible damage their client may be able to recover.
 
The answer to the question of whether or not both parties are willing to negotiate and reach a settlement will also decide just how long it would take to finally settle the case. If both sides are open to settlement discussions and are willing to compromise, you'll likely reach a resolution faster than when they can't seem to agree. In such a situation, the second-best option is to proceed to trial.
 
Cases that go to trial often take longer to settle due to busy court schedules and backlogs. That's why we only opt for the court process if negotiating out of court is no longer a possibility.
 
Then there's also the issue, or rather the headache, of dealing with insurance companies and the tactics they use to deny liability, jeopardize a claim, or manipulate the injured into accepting less than what they deserve. Luckily, with Morgan and Morgan by your side, you can rest assured that we are familiar with these tactics and won't settle for anything less than you deserve.

In such a case, your uninsured motorist coverage could come into play. As the name implies, this type of insurance protects you if you're involved in an accident with an uninsured or unidentified driver, which also involves a hit-and-run accident.
 
Although uninsured motorist coverage is not required in St. Petersburg or elsewhere in Florida, many drivers opt to have this type of coverage just to prepare themselves for the unexpected and ensure that they won't have to foot expensive bills out of pocket when such an accident occurs.
 
But because it is not compulsory, not every driver in the state has this type of insurance. If that's the case with you, the attorney will explore other options, such as your health insurance or dram shop laws, to get you some form of compensation.

Yes, there is a deadline plaintiffs must follow strictly, whether or not the accident was caused by a drunk driver.
 
If the appropriate authorities investigated the accident after you reported it verbally, usually through a 911 call, you would not need to file a written report separately. The investigative process initiated by the law enforcement agency will fulfill the reporting requirement.
 
However, if no formal investigation was conducted, then it is your responsibility to file a written report with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles within 10 days of the accident.

While there are many different things you can do depending on the nature of the accident, the following are the most critical.
 
Your health and well-being should always come first. So, if you have sustained injuries, call 911 right away and request an ambulance and the police. When the police arrive at the accident scene, provide them with all the details you can remember, and then obtain a copy of the report they will file.
 
If possible, document the accident scene by taking photos, collecting witness information, and noting down every single detail you remember about the scene and the events that led to the accident.
 
Finally, get in touch with Morgan and Morgan as soon as possible. We will review your case for free and advise you on how to proceed.

Punitive damages are usually awarded in cases where the other party was grossly negligent. So, yes, you can seek punitive damages in a drunk driving accident lawsuit because drinking and driving is a form of gross negligence.
 
That said, note that punitive damages are not usually guaranteed and are also not based solely on the fact that the other driver was drunk. In other words, the other party's specific actions will ultimately determine whether or not you deserve an award for punitive damages.
 
For example, think of a situation where the driver had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above the legal limit in Florida of .08, or demonstrated a complete disregard for the safety of others on the road by driving the wrong way. Such actions could warrant punitive damages if you have a skilled attorney to prove these facts.

Morgan and Morgan drunk driving lawsuit lawyers are always ready to fight for you or your loved ones injured or killed due to drunk driver's negligence. With over 35 years of experience fighting for the injured and a record of winning big settlements for our clients, we may be able to get you compensation for your injuries and damages.
 
Drunk driving lawsuits are time-sensitive. So don't wait any longer; contact us today for a free case evaluation.