Drunk driving car accidents in Charleston, WV are among the most devastating types of collisions and are entirely preventable. Their impact extends far beyond the initial crash, affecting victims physically, emotionally, and financially.
Common Drunk Driving Accident Injuries
Common severe injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries: Blunt trauma to the head can cause concussions, brain contusions, or life-changing brain damage.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting the victim’s quality of life.
- Broken Bones: The force of a collision can cause fractures and breaks, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Internal Injuries: Internal bleeding and organ damage can occur, posing life-threatening health risks.
- Emotional Trauma: The psychological impact of a drunk driving accident can be long-lasting, leading to conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression
Impaired drivers have reduced reaction times, poor judgment, and diminished motor skills, increasing the likelihood of high-speed collisions and erratic driving behavior. These factors significantly elevate the risk of causing catastrophic injuries and fatalities to both drunk drivers and other road users.
Holding a Drunk Driver Accountable
A drunk driver can be held responsible for an accident through both criminal and civil legal proceedings. Criminally, they may face charges such as driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI), which can result in penalties including fines, license suspension, and imprisonment.
Civilly, you can hold a drunk driver liable for damages caused by the accident by filing a lawsuit. The types of compensation available include current and future medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and more. However, you must prove the four elements of negligence:
- Duty: The driver owed a duty of care to others on the road.
- Breach: The driver breached this duty by driving under the influence.
- Causation: This breach directly caused the accident.
- Damages: The accident resulted in actual damages, such as injuries or property damage.
The burden of proof in civil cases is lower than in criminal cases, requiring only a preponderance of evidence to establish the drunk driver’s responsibility for the accident, which means that the evidence is more convincing and likely true rather than beyond a reasonable doubt.
How a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Can Help
A Charleston drunk driving accident lawyer can help gather and preserve crucial evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records, to build a strong case. They will negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation and will represent you in court if a settlement cannot be reached. Their experience, knowledge, and resources can significantly increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome and allow you to focus on your recovery.
Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident, speaking to an attorney soon after can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Arrange a free consultation with our Charleston, WV Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer today by calling (304) 720-6700 or messaging us online.