In Summerville, driving under the influence remains a significant cause of traffic fatalities. Tragically, every auto accident death resulting from an impaired driver is entirely preventable, intensifying the anguish for the victim or their surviving family in the aftermath of a collision with a drunk or impaired driver. The accident could have been avoided if the other driver had refrained from operating a vehicle while intoxicated, high, or otherwise impaired. It's essential to underscore that driving under the influence constitutes a criminal act. While the state proceeds with criminal proceedings, spanning misdemeanors to felonies, with potential repercussions such as jail time, fines, and a suspended license for the offender, the victim or their personal representative may decide to initiate a personal injury lawsuit against all negligent parties involved. At Ty Robinson Law Firm, we stand with victims of drunk driving accidents and their families in Summerville, endeavoring to secure the maximum compensation for their injury claims.
Summerville’s drunk driving accident cases introduce unique challenges not found in other car accidents. The recklessness and illegality of a drunk driver’s decision to operate a vehicle under the influence elevate the chances of punitive damages being awarded. Unlike compensatory damages, which address economic and non-economic losses, punitive damages are intended to punish the drunk driver for their reckless behavior and act as a deterrent. Another significant difference is the potential shared fault, extending beyond the drunk driver to the establishment that overserved them. If the person providing alcohol knew or reasonably should have known about the driver’s impairment but continued serving them, they may be held accountable for damages, sharing in the responsibility for the accident. Successfully managing these intricacies requires the expertise of a Summerville auto accident attorney familiar with handling drunk driving accident claims.
If you suffered injuries in a car accident involving a drunk driver in Summerville, various types of damages are available to you, including both past and future medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage resulting from the incident. In cases where a fatality occurred due to the DUI car accident, additional damages may be owed to cover funeral and burial expenses, lost wages of the loved one, and loss of consortium or companionship. The pain and suffering resulting from being hit by a drunk driver, along with the associated psychological and emotional distress, should also be taken into consideration. Your Summerville drunk driving accident lawyer will assist you in effectively presenting your damages or injuries, whether in negotiations or trial if necessary.
A. An attorney can navigate the legal complexities, negotiate with insurance companies, gather evidence, and represent you in court if necessary. They have the experience and resources you need and you’d benefit greatly by working with one.
A. Even with a BAC below the limit, impairment can still be a factor, and you may have a valid claim if their actions led to the accident.
A. Punitive damages may not be awarded if the plaintiff cannot demonstrate that the drunk driver’s actions were particularly reckless or intentional.
Securing full and fair compensation following a drunk driving accident can be intricate without the right approach. Before communicating directly with the auto insurance company of the impaired driver or considering any settlement offers, reach out to us at the Ty Robinson Law Firm. We bring experience in negotiating comprehensive and equitable settlements with insurance companies in drunk driving accident cases. Should negotiations not yield the desired results, we are prepared to litigate and take the matter to court. Our dedication is to fight on your behalf and ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
Don't wait to seek the justice you deserve.
Ty Robinson Law Firm helps injured victims and their families obtain full and fair compensation in Summerville and all throughout South Carolina. Let our dedicated team provide the compassionate representation and personalized attention your injury case needs.