Driving under the influence (DUI) cases are some of the leading causes of all fatal car accidents in the United States. What makes these cases so difficult is that they are 100% preventable by someone not getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or drugs.
If you or someone you love were in a car accident where the other driver was under the influence, hiring a drunk driving accident attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve after the accident. Whether for emotional, physical damages, or both, here’s how hiring a car accident lawyer can help if you are involved in a DUI accident.
They’ll Investigate the Accident
The first thing your attorney will do post-accident is to investigate the crash. While the police are typically the ones conducting the investigation, your lawyer will assess all the reports so they can have a better understanding of what happened and how it happened.
They need to thoroughly investigate the car accident to prove who was liable for it at the time of the accident, or there may not be enough evidence to determine who was at fault.
Even if you could walk away from the accident thinking you were okay, seeing a medical professional for an exam will be vital to your lawyer’s investigation into the crash. When serious injuries are involved, this exam is critical so they can determine what fair compensation would be for your medical expenses in the future.
They’ll Establish Who is Liable for the Accident
Their investigation will allow them to determine who is liable for the accident. While it seems evident that the intoxicated driver is responsible, DUI accidents can have more than one liable party. For example, if the drunk person was working when they hit you, their employer can also be responsible for your losses.
Depending on the accident’s severity and how it happened, your lawyer might even determine that they can hold the bar or restaurant they left liable in addition to the driver. This could be the entire company, specific bartenders, or the owner.
They’ll Help Negotiate With Your Insurance Company After a DUI Accident
When you hire a car accident attorney, they’ll help you with all your insurance claims and even negotiate with them if they need to meet your expectations. They’ll take the time to ensure the claim mentions all necessary information and then negotiate with them as necessary.
They’ll continue speaking with the insurance company to get a settlement that covers all your medical bills, lost wages, emotional damages, and other losses. It can be time-consuming but having an attorney willing to do the work to get you what you need is vital to appropriate compensation.
They’ll Fight For the Compensation You Deserve
More often than not, your attorney and insurance company can handle all settlements out of the courtroom, but if they cannot, then having an attorney prepared to fight for you in court is beneficial.
Things You Can Receive Compensation For After a DUI Accident
So, what type of compensation can you receive after being involved in a car accident with a DUI? You’ll be able to have your lawyer fight for non-economic and economic damages after the accident. They’ll be able to identify which ones you’re eligible for and how much compensation for each seems fair and just.
The extent of your injuries, physical, and emotional damage will all play roles in the final settlement you’ll be offered. Here’s an idea of what damages you can receive compensation for after a DUI-involved car accident:
- Medical bills
- Medical treatment post initial medical exam
- Medications
- Vehicle damage
- Emotional distress
- Any pain and suffering (physical or emotional)
- Lost wages for being unable to work
- If your quality of life is diminished
Conclusion
DUIs are 100% preventable, but that doesn’t mean they still don’t happen. If you or someone you love has been involved in a car accident involving a DUI, hiring an attorney sooner rather than later who can take steps to get the compensation you need is vital.
