A popular bar near the campus of Florida State University is looking at a big tab after a jury found it responsible for a drink driving accident that left a high school girl with brain damage.
A jury ordered the owners of Potbelly’s in Tallahassee to pay Jackie Faircloth and her family more than $30 million for injuries sustained in the accident, according to the Tallahassee Democrat. A judge later ticked that award down to roughly $29 million to account for money obtained by Faircloth through an insurance policy.
Faircloth was 18 years old when she mowed down at a crosswalk near Potbelly’s in November 2014. Devon Dwyer, who was driving the car that struck Faircloth, was intoxicated at the time. Faircloth and Dwyer had been drinking at Potbelly’s prior to the accident, despite both being underage.
Dwyer was speeding at the time of the crash and fled the scene of the accident, according to the Democrat. Potbelly’s receipts showed that he ordered 18 beers and six whiskeys at the bar in the hours before the collision. Dwyer, who was sentenced to 2.5 years behind bars for the hit and run, claimed that he did not consume all of those drinks.
Faircloth is still unable to walk or talk and has to be fed through a tube. Her family alleged in the lawsuit that Potbelly’s “significantly contributed” to Dwyer’s intoxication on the night of the accident. The company that owns the bar is appealing the verdict.
Legal Protections for People Injured in Drunk Driving Accidents
Faircloth’s case is an unfortunate reminder of the serious consequences that can come with the reckless decision to get behind the wheel while intoxicated. It also highlights the responsibility that bar owners have when it comes to underage and excessive drinking.
Anyone who has been injured in a car accident has the legal right to seek compensation from those responsible. The money damages in these cases often include compensation for medical bills, property damage, missed wages while recuperating, and pain, suffering and emotional damage.
In the tragic situation that a person is killed in an accident, his or her family members have the right to seek similar compensation for wrongful death.
Speak with a Villages Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving or other accident, it is important to have an attorney in your corner. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you get the full compensation available under the law.
Villages accident attorney Tim Babiarz has been fighting for people injured in accidents for more than two decades. He is committed to helping people get the full compensation available under the law.
Our office is conveniently located in the Villages. We are also proud to represent clients throughout the area, including in Ocala, Leesburg, Lady Lake, Wildwood, Summerfield and beyond. Call (352) 205-7559 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with a Villages accident attorney.
