You technically don’t need a lawyer if you were injured by a drunk driver. You can choose to represent yourself in a civil case against the impaired driver who caused your collision. However, an attorney can help you avoid mistakes that would jeopardize your accident case.
Additionally, due to congested court systems, judges may have less patience with self-represented defendants. With a DUI accident lawyer on your side, you can protect yourself and your opportunity to seek compensation for your losses following your accident.
A drunk driver is arrested after a car crash. A DUI accident lawyer can advise you on what to do after a drunk driver injures you in an auto wreck.
Benefits of Hiring a Lawyer for a DUI Accident
If you suffered injuries in a DUI accident and don’t know your legal rights, hiring a lawyer can benefit you immensely. You should consult with a DUI accident attorney as soon as possible after you receive medical attention. DUI accident attorneys can be instrumental in:
Helping You to Receive the Compensation You Deserve
Drunk driving accidents can lead to serious injuries, disability, or death. A DUI accident attorney can represent you and hold the liable parties accountable, allowing you to focus on healing. Your DUI accident case can enable you to gain:
- Needed medical care
- Emotional trauma
- Lost income
- Rehabilitative care
You may also be awarded punitive damages. A lawyer for DUI accidents can file a claim against the drunk driver’s insurance company and seek compensation that is suitable for your damages.
Relieving You of Financial Burden
Many victims of impaired driving hesitate to pursue legal action due to financial constraints. However, many law firms work on a contingency basis and take no payment until you win your case. Contingency fees can be particularly helpful if you are too injured to work.
Furthermore, some law firms also offer free case consultations. In a nutshell, a lawyer for DUI victims can make it possible for you to seek justice without incurring any out-of-pocket costs.
Preventing a Dismissal if Your Case Goes to Trial
If the insurance company fails to agree on a settlement, your legal team will be prepared to take your case to trial. Your lawyer’s strategy will have a significant impact on the judge’s decision to hold the liable party accountable for their actions. A DUI accident attorney can represent you every step of the way.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Accident
Being in an accident can be jarring and disorientating. Following a drunk driving accident, these actions can help you get back on your feet:
Seek Medical Help
Even if you don’t have any visible injuries, make it a priority to visit your healthcare provider. Although you may worry about the cost, it’s important not to skip needed care. If you are too injured, do not attempt to move. Those around you will call an ambulance to help you.
Call the Police
It is essential to contact the authorities and report the accident. If there are injuries, don’t leave the scene until the police arrive. Later, you can ask for a copy of the police report.
Take Pictures of the Scene
Document the aftermath of the accident. If you don’t have a phone with you, ask a witness for help. Remember to also preserve your clothes and footwear and take pictures of yourself, as well.
Contact a DUI Accident Lawyer
Between property damage and bodily harm, a DUI accident can have a lasting impact. However, a lawyer for DUI victims can assist you during this time. Your lawyer can help you hold the liable parties responsible and pursue compensation for your bodily harm and emotional distress.
Consider working with a local attorney well-versed in state laws. For example, if you were involved in a crash in New Orleans, you can discuss your case with a New Orleans DUI lawyer.
Can You Sue If a Drunk Driver Hits You?
You have a legal right to sue a drunk driver who caused the accident that injured you. Additionally, other parties may be liable, such as:
- The vehicle’s owner
- Passengers
- Vehicle product manufacturers
- The driver’s employer
- The business where the driver was served
To successfully sue, you will need to prove that you were owed a duty of care, that duty was not fulfilled, and you were injured as a result.
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Is a Drunk Driver Always at Fault for a DUI Accident?
If the drunk driver who injured you is convicted of a DUI, that could help your case. However, you must be able to prove a link between the driver’s actions and your crash. You may need to demonstrate how the accident could have been avoided if the other driver was sober.
Additionally, some states utilize a comparative negligence rule. These states recognize that more than one driver may contribute to the cause of an accident. If you were speeding or violating the law at the time of the crash, you may be partially at fault. An attorney can help you understand your state’s laws regarding fault.
What Is the Average Settlement for a DUI Accident Case?
The average settlement for a drunk driving accident is roughly $125,000. Personal injury cases can settle for as little as a few thousand dollars to over $1,000,000. Depending on your financial losses, your case may be worth more than average.
Is It Worth Getting a Lawyer After a DUI Accident?
Even though you don’t need a lawyer after a DUI accident, getting a lawyer may be worth it. Your lack of legal knowledge and trial procedures could hurt your case. A DUI accident lawyer will have experience with cases like yours.
Your lawyer can collect evidence and build a strong case while you heal. Lawyers are also familiar with the settlement tactics insurance companies use to reduce claim payouts. You can rest assured that someone has your best interest in mind when you work with a lawyer.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.