A DUI truck driver accident in Florida can cause devastating consequences that change lives forever. When a commercial truck driver operates under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the risk of catastrophic injury or death skyrockets. At Slater | Grant, we are committed to fighting for victims and their families who have suffered due to the reckless and illegal behavior of intoxicated truck drivers. This article provides an in-depth look at the legal implications, risks, and your rights after a DUI truck driver accident in Florida, along with how we can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Complete the free case evaluation form or call us now at 813-995-6444 to take the first step toward justice.
The Dangers of a DUI Truck Driver Accident in Florida
Florida’s roads see thousands of commercial trucks daily, often sharing space with passenger vehicles and pedestrians. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks—sometimes up to 80,000 pounds—means that when a driver is impaired, the consequences are often catastrophic. Driving under the influence impairs judgment, slows reaction times, and decreases motor coordination, all of which are especially dangerous when operating such a large vehicle.
Victims of a DUI truck driver accident in Florida often suffer life-altering injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage leading to paralysis
- Severe burns or lacerations
- Crushing injuries and amputations
- Fatalities
At Slater | Grant, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these injuries take, and we work tirelessly to ensure victims obtain just compensation.
Why Truck Drivers Face Stricter DUI Laws in Florida
Florida law holds commercial truck drivers to a higher standard than regular motorists. While the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for passenger vehicles is 0.08%, truck drivers with a commercial driver’s license (CDL) must maintain a BAC below 0.04%. This stricter limit reflects the increased risk posed by commercial vehicles on public roads.
Truck drivers caught driving with a BAC at or above 0.04% face severe penalties, including:
- Immediate disqualification or suspension of their CDL
- Criminal DUI charges with possible jail time
- Heavy fines and probation
- Permanent damage to their professional driving record
When a DUI truck driver accident in Florida occurs, these criminal penalties are often just the beginning of legal battles to hold the responsible parties accountable.
Who Is Liable in a DUI Truck Driver Accident in Florida?
Liability in a DUI truck driver accident in Florida is rarely limited to the intoxicated driver alone. Several parties can share legal responsibility:
The Truck Driver
The driver is directly responsible for choosing to operate a vehicle under the influence, making them primarily liable for resulting damages.
The Trucking Company
Employers can be held accountable if they:
- Failed to conduct adequate drug and alcohol screening
- Hired or retained a driver with a known history of substance abuse or unsafe driving
- Pressured drivers into unsafe schedules or overwork that contributed to substance use
- Neglected vehicle maintenance or failed to enforce safety regulations
Vehicle Maintenance or Parts Suppliers
If faulty equipment or inadequate maintenance contributed to the accident’s severity, those responsible may also bear liability.
At Slater | Grant, our team conducts thorough investigations into every aspect of the crash, ensuring all liable parties are identified and held accountable.
Steps to Take After a DUI Truck Driver Accident in Florida
Surviving a truck crash involving a DUI driver is overwhelming, but taking the right steps immediately can protect your rights and strengthen your case.
Call 911 and Seek Medical Attention
Your health is paramount. Even if injuries seem minor, get a medical evaluation right away.
Document the Scene
If safe, gather evidence including photos of vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and anything suggesting impairment (e.g., open alcohol containers).
Obtain the Police Report
The report will include critical information like BAC test results, officer observations, and citations issued.
Contact Slater | Grant
Before discussing your case with insurance companies, complete our free case evaluation form or call us at 813-995-6444. Insurance companies may attempt to limit your claim, but our experienced attorneys protect your interests from day one.
Types of Compensation Available to Victims
Victims of a DUI truck driver accident in Florida may be eligible for extensive compensation, including:
- Medical expenses for emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment
- Lost income for time off work and diminished earning capacity in the future
- Pain and suffering for physical and emotional trauma endured
- Punitive damages designed to punish gross negligence, such as DUI behavior
- Wrongful death damages for families who have lost a loved one, covering funeral costs and loss of companionship
At Slater | Grant, we meticulously calculate your damages to pursue the highest possible award.
How Slater | Grant Builds a Powerful DUI Truck Accident Case
Our legal team takes a strategic and detail-oriented approach to every DUI truck driver accident in Florida case, including:
Driver Background Investigations
We examine employment history, CDL status, prior DUI offenses, and drug testing records.
Comprehensive Evidence Review
We obtain police reports, toxicology tests, and work with accident reconstruction experts to build a solid factual case.
Witness and Video Evidence
We gather witness statements and secure traffic or dashcam footage to support your claim.
Accurate Damage Calculations
By consulting medical and financial experts, we ensure all current and future losses are included.
The Impact of Florida’s Comparative Negligence Law on DUI Truck Driver Accident Claims
Florida follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation can be reduced if you share any fault for the accident—even if the truck driver was intoxicated.
For instance, if you are found 20% responsible, your total damages will be reduced by 20%. Proving minimal or no fault is therefore critical to maximizing your recovery.
At Slater | Grant, we rigorously analyze all accident factors—including road conditions and other driver actions—to minimize any claim against you.
Why You Need an Experienced Attorney for a DUI Truck Driver Accident in Florida
Truck accidents involving DUI drivers often lead to complex legal battles with multiple defendants and large insurance companies. Victims without strong legal representation risk settling for far less than they deserve.
At Slater | Grant, we bring decades of experience taking on major trucking companies and insurers. We fight tirelessly to get you fair compensation and are prepared to go to trial when necessary.
Contact Slater | Grant Today – We Fight for DUI Truck Accident Victims
If you or a loved one have been injured in a DUI truck driver accident in Florida, acting quickly is essential. Evidence can degrade and legal deadlines can pass.
Complete our free case evaluation form or call us now at 813-995-6444 to speak directly with an experienced truck accident attorney. We operate on a contingency basis, so you owe no fees unless we win your case.
Sources
- Florida Statutes – DUI Regulations
Detailed information about Florida’s DUI laws and commercial driver standards.
https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2023/316.193 - Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
Federal regulations on commercial driver safety, including BAC limits.
https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov - National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – DUI Statistics
National data on DUI-related crashes involving commercial vehicles.
https://www.nhtsa.gov
