A drunk driving accident can change a person’s life, leaving them to deal with emotional, financial, and physical difficulties. No amount of money can erase the trauma. But knowing your legal rights in the aftermath is essential.
As you navigate the complex web of insurance claims and potential lawsuits, you must understand what damages you may be entitled to recover.
Medical Expenses
One of the most immediate concerns after any accident is medical care. If you are injured in a drunk driving accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses. This includes hospital bills, doctor’s visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and medications.
If the accident caused long-term or permanent injury, you can also receive payment for future medical expenses to ensure your recovery doesn’t strain your finances. To maximize your recovery and protect your rights, contact a drunk driving accident lawyer.
Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity
You might be eligible for compensation for lost income and future earning potential if you lose the ability to earn after a drunk driving accident.
An attorney for drunk driving accidents will assist you in getting paid for lost income while you heal and for future earnings if your condition keeps you from working. They can evaluate your damages, collect proof, and bargain with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair reimbursement. To free you up to focus on your recovery, they can assist you in navigating the legal system, handling complex paperwork, and pursuing the maximum amount of money you are entitled to.
Pain and Suffering
Beyond physical injuries, a drunk driving accident can cause significant emotional and psychological trauma. Victims often suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other emotional distress.
In many states, the law allows you to seek compensation for these non-economic damages, known as “pain and suffering.” This compensation is intended to reflect the mental anguish and emotional toll of the accident. The amount awarded typically depends on the severity of the injuries and their impact on your life.
Property Damage
In a drunk driving accident, your vehicle and personal property may also be damaged or destroyed. You are entitled to recover compensation for the repairs or replacement of your property. This can include repairing your vehicle, replacing personal belongings, or any other property damaged in the accident.
Punitive Damages
You may be eligible for punitive damages when a driver’s actions are reckless or egregious. Punitive damages may be awarded by courts to punish the at-fault driver and discourage similar behavior since drunk driving is regarded as malicious and intentional. These damages are typically separate from the compensation for your injuries and property damage and are meant to punish the driver’s actions.
Wrongful Death Claims
If a loved one lost their life in a drunk driving accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim. In this situation, the remaining family members may pursue damages for the loss of companionship, burial costs, and other losses associated with the death. Every state has rules about wrongful death claims; therefore, speaking with a lawyer specializing in this field is essential.
Final Thoughts
The psychological and physical toll of surviving a drunk driving accident can be daunting. Your life may be affected long after the collision, but several legal options exist for getting paid. Damages that represent their losses, including pain and suffering and medical costs, are due to victims of drunk driving incidents.
If you’re involved in a drunk driving accident, consult a knowledgeable lawyer to assist you in handling the legal system and ensure you get paid what you are due.
