Despite strict laws regarding driving while intoxicated, an alarming number of people still get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. Sadly, their decision to drive while drunk often has tragic consequences.
More than 10,000 people are killed every year in the U.S. due to drunk driving and many more are injured. Even though there is increased awareness regarding the dangers of drunk driving, it is still a common occurrence. Due to this, it’s important for government organizations, charities and communities to continue to educate people about the risks of driving while under the influence of alcohol.
What Are Your Rights?
If you’ve been involved in an accident that was caused by a drunk driver, you should be able to take legal action against them. Typically, drunk drivers will face criminal charges when they’re caught by police, but this isn’t the only type of legal action they can face. By making a compensation claim against them, you can file a civil case and obtain financial recompense for the harm you’ve suffered.
When an accident occurs, the person responsible can usually be held liable. If the incident was caused by a drunk driver, the law actually extends the rights of victims to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable for their reckless behavior.
Is a Drunk Driving Accident Like Other Car Accident Claims?
No. While some elements are similar, claiming compensation after a drunk driving accident is different to making a claim after a typical car accident or collision. In many states in the U.S., victims of drunk driving accidents can obtain additional damages. In California, for example, victims of drunk driving accidents can claim punitive damages, as well as other types of financial compensation. This increases the overall amount of compensation you can obtain, so you might be surprised at just how much your claim is worth.
As drunk driving accident claims are different to standard car collision claims, it’s important to find personal injury attorneys with the appropriate experience and expertise. By working with a law firm that specializes in drunk driving accident claims, like Jurewitz Law Group, you can ensure you get the expert advice you need.
How Much Compensation Can You Obtain?
The amount of compensation victims can claim after an accident depends on the specific situation and the consequences of the incident. If a victim sustains life-changing injuries, for example, they may receive more compensation than if they experience relatively minor, temporary harm.
When you’re making a claim due to a drunk driving accident, various factors are taken into account. The driver’s recklessness can give rise to punitive damages, but the cost of your medical bills, physical rehabilitation, lost income and damage to your vehicle can also be included in your compensation claim.
To get a more detailed view of how much your claim could be worth, talk to a specialist personal injury lawyer today. With professional advice, you can find out exactly what your rights are and how much compensation you could receive when you make a successful claim.