I Was Hit By a Drunk Driver, What are My Legal Options?

In 2010, the CDC reported that more than 10,000 people were killed in alcohol-related vehicle accidents. In fact, in the United States, alcohol is responsible for more than one-third of all car accidents. While there are criminal charges a drunk driver may face, victims could have other legal options for recuperating your costs.

Hit By a Drunk Driver

Civil Damages

Filing a civil case against a drunk driver means you are looking for financial restitution to compensate you for your injuries. Your claim is the only way you can force the drunk driver to pay. Compensation is referred to as “damages” in the courts and may consist of “special” or “general” damages.

Be Cautious About Settlements

The drunk driver’s insurance company will contact you to see if they can resolve the issue. This is because they know a lawsuit is likely; therefore, they want to diminish any chance of a loss by offering a high settlement upfront.

But, they know you don’t have time to calculate your current and future expenses. So, what seems like a high settlement is actually bottom dollar.

Instead of agreeing on the spot, you should speak to a car accident attorney first.

Social Host and Other Liability Issues May Also Apply

Not only is the drunk driver responsible, but you may have other parties to list in your civil lawsuit. For example, if the drunk driver was allowed to drive home after a private party, and the host supplied the alcohol, and knowingly allowed the drunk driver to leave the party, then the host could be held negligent.

How Much is a Drunk Driving Accident Worth?

The amount your case is worth depends on a number of factors, and there is no set number for these cases. Each case is evaluated on the losses and economical damages.

However, you may receive a settlement for:

  • Medical costs
  • Time away from work or permanent loss of income
  • Wrongful death
  • Pain and suffering
  • Long-term disability
  • Hospital bills
  • Physical therapy
  • Brain damage

Hit By A Drunk Driver? Contact Us

Drunk driving cases are very difficult. If the drunk driver was under insured or uninsured, collections may become even more complex. You need an attorney by your side that can fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing.

Glotzer & Kobren, P.A. at Glotzerlaw.com can help you with your drunken driving accident case. Contact us for a free consultation today.

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