DUI Accident Claims in Florida: What Victims Need to Know

Drunk driving accidents cause some of the most severe injuries on Florida roads, and the law recognizes that with expanded options for compensation beyond a typical crash.

Written by the Florida Injury Team Legal Content Team · Reviewed for accuracy by our network of licensed Florida attorneys · Learn about our editorial process

Why DUI accident claims are different

When a drunk or impaired driver causes your accident, you're dealing with more than a typical negligence claim. Florida allows injured victims to pursue punitive damages against a DUI driver in many cases — compensation meant to punish egregious conduct, on top of your standard damages.

What makes these cases stronger

A criminal DUI charge against the other driver, while a separate legal process from your civil claim, often provides powerful evidence: police reports, breathalyzer or blood test results, and officer observations can all support your case for compensation.

You may have more than one source of recovery

• The drunk driver's auto insurance policy
• Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured
• In some cases, a bar, restaurant, or venue that over-served a visibly intoxicated driver (dram shop liability, which is limited in Florida but can apply in specific circumstances)

What to do if you were hit by a suspected drunk driver

• Call 911 immediately and request that police test the other driver
• Do not confront the driver — let law enforcement handle it
• Get medical care and document your injuries
• Request a copy of the police report once available

Why legal help matters here

DUI accident claims often involve multiple insurance policies, potential punitive damages, and sometimes a parallel criminal case. An attorney can coordinate all of this while you focus on recovering.