Factors That Can Affect Settlement in a Drunk Driving Case And How Can Lawyers Help

Car accidents are a significant cause of death and injury in the United States. Every day, around 28 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes.

When you are injured in a gruesome accident, the last thing you want to worry about is money. You need to focus on getting better. That is why it is essential to speak with lawyers from agencies like fvflawfirm.com as soon as possible after the accident. 

They can get the compensation you deserve to focus on healing. This blog post will discuss some factors that can affect settlement in a drunk driving case and how your lawyer can help.

1. The Severity Of The Injuries

When you are injured in a drunk driving accident, the severity of your injuries will play a significant role in how much you can receive in a settlement. If you have suffered minor injuries, you may only be able to recover economic damages, such as medical bills and lost wages.

However, if you have suffered more severe injuries, such as broken bones or traumatic brain injury, you can recover economic and non-economic damages.

The severity of the injuries will also affect how long it takes to settle your case. If you have suffered minor injuries, your case may settle pretty quickly. However, it may take longer to settle if you have suffered more severe injuries.

2. The Amount Of Property Damage

The amount of property damage that can play a significant role in your case is worth it. If there was a lot of damage to your car, or if you had to go to the hospital for your injuries, you can expect to receive more money in your settlement.

A lawyer can start by investigating the accident and gathering evidence to support your claim for damages.

Some of the evidence includes: 

-The police report 

-Witness statements 

-Medical records and bills 

-Photographs of the accident scene and your injuries 

An experienced lawyer will also know how to negotiate with the insurance company to get you the best settlement possible. 

3. Whether Or Not The Driver Was Arrested

The next factor affecting a drunk driving settlement is whether or not the driver was arrested. If the driver were arrested, it would be much easier to prove that they were at fault for the accident.

However, proving their guilt may be more challenging if the driver wasn't arrested. Either way, a lawyer will be able to help you gather the evidence you need to prove your case.

4. The Driver's Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) At The Time Of The Accident

BAC is the main factor that will affect the number of damages you can recover in a drunk driving accident case. The higher the driver's BAC, the more likely they will be found negligent. 

Lawyers can help by collecting evidence of the driver's BAC at the time of the accident. It can include obtaining a copy of the police report, usually containing the driver's BAC results. If the driver denies taking a chemical test, that can also be used to prove negligence. 

The driver's prior DUI convictions can also be used to prove negligence. A lawyer can obtain a copy of the driving record from the DMV. It will show any prior DUI convictions. 

5. The Jurisdiction In Which The Case Is Filed

The jurisdiction in which the case is filed can also affect how long it takes to settle. Some states have laws that require cases to go to trial if they are not settled within a specific time frame. It can add months or even years to the process. Other states do not have this requirement to reach settlements much sooner.

6. The Insurance Company's Liability Limits

Insurance companies typically have different levels of coverage that they offer to their policyholders. The amount of coverage that an insurance company can provide can affect how much money they're willing to pay out in a settlement. 

If the at-fault driver doesn't have enough insurance coverage to cover the damages, the victim may not be able to get fully compensated for their injuries. It is where experienced personal injury attorneys can help. 

A lawyer can help the victim of a drunk driving accident by negotiating with the insurance company to get the best possible settlement. 

7. The Expertise And Knowledge Of An Attorney 

An experienced car accident lawyer will understand how to value your claim and work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve. Hence, you must hire licensed and highly-qualified lawyers for your case.

Conclusion

Drunk driving is a serious offense with potentially life-altering consequences. If you have been charged with drunk driving, it is essential to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. A reputed lawyer can review the facts of your case and help you understand the best way to proceed.