Drinking and driving do not mix. Drunk driving is a leading cause of traffic accidents in the U.S. A drunk driver is a loose cannon and poses a threat to themselves and other people on the road.

Most drunk drivers agree that drunk driving is dangerous. They also know that DUI is prohibited under laws. Despite this, they get behind the wheel whilst intoxicated.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people die in drunk driving crashes, while many others are scarred for life. In many cases, physical injuries heal quickly, but emotional scars may take years to heal.

Though there is not much you can do to avoid being the victim of a drunk driving accident, you can claim compensation for your losses and injuries.

If you are a drunk driving accident victim, HURT 911 can help you find the right lawyer. Our panel comprises some of the finest personal injury attorneys in Connecticut.

FAQs

What Should I Do After a Drunk Driving Accident?

If you have been injured in a drunk driving accident, do not panic. Following an accident, you may feel mixed emotions of fear, anxiety, and anger. Do not let your emotions control you. Quickly assess the damage and call 911. Report the incident to the police. Document everything.

Who Can Sue in a DUI Case?  

Any person (must be an adult) affected by the drunk driver’s actions can bring a lawsuit against them. Parents/ legal guardians of a minor injured in a drunk driving accident can bring a lawsuit on their behalf.

How Can a Lawyer Help?

Your DUI lawyer will collect evidence to build a strong, persuasive, and logical argument. They will represent you in negotiations. Your DUI lawyer will walk you through the different stages of the claims process.

What Damages Can Be Recovered in a DUI Case?

If you are able to establish negligence, you may be eligible to receive compensation for:

  • Lost wages
  • Present and future treatment costs
  • Loss of consortium
  • Pain and suffering
injured

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Here are some things to do after being hit by a drunk driver:
    • Get to a safe spot
    • Call the police
    • Take photographs of your and the other driver’s vehicle and crash scene. Assess and document your injuries and damages
    • Talk to eyewitnesses. Note down their contact information
    • Stay calm while talking to law enforcement officials or people around you. Do not leave the scene unless staying poses a major risk to your safety or well-being
    • Seek medical help immediately
    Any person (must be an adult) who suffers an injury because of a drunk driver’s actions can sue them for damages. If a drunk driving victim succumbs to their injuries or becomes mentally/physically incapacitated, their family members can file a lawsuit against the driver. Other parties who can sue a drunk driver for damages are:
    • Passengers in the drunk driver’s vehicle or the other vehicle
    • Pedestrians
    • Relatives who were present at the scene
    • Minors injured in a DUI accident can bring a lawsuit through their parents or legal guardians
    Your DUI lawyer will help you answer questions that law enforcement officials pose without revealing too much. The professional will investigate your case and collect strong evidence in your favor. If the case goes to trial, your lawyer will use evidence and witness testimonies to refute allegations against you. Your lawyer will work to defend you against charges.
    If you were hit by a drunk driver, you may be able to obtain compensation for:
    • Past and future medical expenses
    • Loss of wages
    • Property damage
    • Physical pain, emotional suffering, and mental anguish
    • Loss of consortium or companionship
    Courts can also award punitive damages in personal injury cases. Also known as exemplary damages, these damages are awarded to punish the party-at-fault when it is proved that they behaved in a reckless and irresponsible manner.
    Your lawyer will help you communicate better with your insurance company and law enforcing bodies. The professional will guide you through the different stages of litigation. They will investigate your case and collect evidence. Your lawyer will negotiate with your insurance company. They will use their expertise to prevent your insurer from downplaying the severity of your injuries. The professional will help you meet deadlines and decide whether a settlement offer is fair. If your case reaches trial, your lawyer will represent you. They will leverage their expertise to maximize compensation.
    DUI attorneys usually work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they get paid only if the decision is in their client’s favor. Contingency fees typically range from 25-40 percent of the total recovery. Before hiring an attorney, ask them whether they bill their clients for case-related expenses even if they lose the case
    If you plead not guilty to a DUI, your case will proceed towards trial.
    Even if a drunk driver is acquitted, the plaintiff can recover economic and non-economic damages.