Why DUI Accidents Demand The Expertise Of A Lawyer

DUI (Driving Under the Influence) accidents are common in the United States. When it happens, it affects the victim physically, emotionally, and financially.

If you are a victim of a DUI accident, it is important to understand the steps to handle it legally and get compensation for your losses.

However, the legal process can be complicated, so it is good to consult a drunk driving accident lawyer to guide you through the process and protect your legal rights. If you handle the case alone, you may miss some important steps and lose the chance to get the maximum compensation.

Here is why you need the expertise of a lawyer to handle DUI accident cases.

Complexity of DUI Cases

DUI accidents come with unique legal complexities that require specialized knowledge. Unlike regular car accidents, DUI accidents involve criminal behavior on the part of the driver, which can influence the legal and insurance process. A lawyer only knows how to handle both the civil and criminal aspects of these cases.

Also, DUI laws vary from state to state. A DUI lawyer knows the local state laws and helps you handle the case according to your state laws so that you will receive full compensation for your damages.

Proving Liability and Intoxication

One of the most significant hurdles in a DUI accident case is proving that the driver was intoxicated at the time of the accident. This requires evidence such as police reports, field sobriety test results, blood alcohol content (BAC) readings, and witness testimonies. The defendant may attempt to dispute their intoxication, which can complicate your ability to hold them liable for your injuries.

A DUI accident lawyer will have the expertise to ensure that all evidence is properly collected, examined, and presented in court. They will know how to use the results of breathalyzer tests, blood tests, and witness statements to establish that the driver was under the influence, making them legally responsible for the accident.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies try to settle DUI accident claims sooner, especially when the intoxicated driver is clearly at fault. You might think this settlement will help you, and you might accept the offer without assessing the full damages. But this settlement won’t cover all your expenses, including medical bills, lost wages, and emotional suffering due to the accident.

A DUI lawyer assesses all your current and future losses and negotiates with the insurance company to get the fair compensation you deserve. If you do not have a lawyer, insurance companies will easily brainwash you to accept the low settlement.

Seeking Maximum Compensation for Victims

DUI accidents often cause severe injuries. The healing process takes more time and can be long and expensive. So, the lawyer will consult with medical and financial experts to calculate the damages and the compensation amount. They can help you get compensation for various losses. It includes:

•       Medical Bills: This includes the cost of emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future medical treatments.

• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, a lawyer will help you recover lost income and future earning potential.
• Pain and Suffering: In cases where injuries are severe or long-lasting, you may be entitled to compensation for emotional trauma and physical pain.
• Punitive Damages: In DUI cases, you may also be entitled to punitive damages, which are awarded in cases of gross negligence or recklessness. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter future irresponsible behavior.

Without a lawyer, you may not fully understand all the forms of compensation you’re entitled to or how to pursue them effectively.

Handling the Legal Paperwork and Deadlines

DUI accident cases involve a lot of paperwork and deadlines. Every state has its own statute of limitations, which is a time limit within which you have to file a lawsuit. Also, there are deadlines for submitting legal paperwork. A lawyer will know all these deadlines and help you file a claim, meet deadlines, and make sure your case is not delayed or dismissed due to technicalities.

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Jay Stallings

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