Even though every driver should know that drunk driving is both unlawful and extremely dangerous, we continue to hear about people who cause severe and fatal injuries to others due to driving under the influence (DUI). Last year, a 29-year-old man in South Florida was charged with DUI manslaughter following a tragic crash at an intersection.
The drunk driver was reportedly speeding and slammed into a car stopped at a red light. The crash caused the car to hit a utility pole and burst into flames, and neither occupant of that vehicle survived the crash and subsequent fire. The drunk driver was treated for injuries and arrested, and he now faces criminal charges of DUI manslaughter for the fatalities.
Justice After DUI Accidents
The above accident reminds all of us how dangerous it can be to drive under the influence. However, even if you never drink and drive, others on the road might, and they can cause serious injury or tragedy. These drivers should be held fully accountable under the law for their actions, both in criminal and civil court.
While a criminal DUI manslaughter conviction can result in prison time, fines, and other penalties, these criminal cases are usually inadequate to compensate DUI accident victims for their injuries or devastating losses. Instead, to seek justice for yourself or a loved one who died, you should contact a Boca Raton DUI accident lawyer who can initiate the civil legal process for you.
Wrongful Death Claims from DUI Accidents
Florida law gives surviving families the right to seek justice for DUI deaths outside of the criminal process by filing a wrongful death claim. Wrongful death occurs when someone acts negligently or wrongfully and causes someone else to lose their life. This applies whether the death was instant or whether an accident victim fought for their lives in the hospital for some time before passing away.
A DUI manslaughter conviction can be used as proof of fault in this type of case, and family members do not need to provide additional evidence of liability if someone is convicted. A DUI accident lawyer will know how to obtain and present this information to prove your claim. Even if someone is not convicted, however, do not let that deter you and your family. It is still possible to seek compensation for wrongful death even if someone is not criminally convicted.
Speak with a Boca Raton DUI Accident Lawyer Right Away
Approaching a fatal DUI accident claim can be complicated and challenging, especially when you are already dealing with a tragic loss in your family. This is when you want our Boca Raton DUI accident attorneys from Demand the Limits Personal Injury Attorneys standing up for your rights. We are passionate about holding intoxicated drivers responsible for the harm they cause, both to victims and their families. Whether you think you might have an injury claim or wrongful death claim, contact us online or call 561-600-3555 for a free case evaluation.
