Do DUI Accident Victims Qualify for Florida Crime Victim Compensation?

Alcohol-impaired drivers are responsible for 31 percent of all traffic-related deaths along with thousands of injuries every year. Recovering from injuries following a drunk driving incident is undoubtedly an incredibly difficult and emotional time as it is, so you should not have to worry about medical bills and lost wages too. If you or a loved one were a victim of drunk driving, you may qualify for DUI compensation under the Florida Crimes Compensation Act. Read on to learn about the qualifications.

Who Qualifies for Florida Crime Victim Compensation?

Based on the Florida Crimes Compensation Act, there are circumstances in which you are entitled to receive compensation. According to the State Attorney’s Office of the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit,

“Any victim who received personal injury or survivors of someone who was killed as a result of a felony or misdemeanor crime punishable under federal or state laws, including DUI and hit and run. Also, any elderly or disabled adult who suffered a property loss as a result of a crime.”

Eligibility Requirements for Florida Crime Victim Compensation

In order to receive compensation, the victim or applicant must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• The crime must be reported within 72 hours of it happening.
• The victim must suffer personal physical injuries or death. The victim must also have limited funds available to help those who have suffered psychiatric or psychological injury.
• The application must be filed within one year of the date of the crime. Based on the case, this may be extended to two years.
• The victim must cooperate with the following parties: law enforcement, the State Attorney’s Office, and the Attorney General’s Office.
• The victim must not have been involved in illegal activity at the time of the crime.
• The victim must also not have any felonies on their record.

If you or a loved one meets the above criteria, you could be eligible for Florida crime victim compensation. Many victims of DUI accidents suffer from not only physical injuries but financial injuries as well, including wage loss, loss of support, disability, funeral expenses, treatment expenses, mental health counseling, and even property loss reimbursement.

These statutory allowances can be beneficial for anyone who has high medical bills and out-of-pocket expenses. Your attorney can help you receive compensation and justice for your situation.

Contact Hartpence Law For a Free Legal Consultation

If you or a loved one have suffered the consequences of a DUI accident, you could be eligible for compensation. At Hartpence Law, we are passionate about fighting for you. Contact us today us at (855) 680-4911 or schedule a free consultation.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney/client relationship.