Orangeburg Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

Orangeburg Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys

When someone decides to drive while intoxicated, they put everyone’s life at risk. A car accident caused by an intoxicated driver often results in severe harm to accident victims, including long-term injuries and, tragically, cases of wrongful death. Navigating the aftermath of these collisions is challenging, and that’s where an Orangeburg drunk driving accident lawyer can provide crucial assistance.

Victims and their families have the right to seek compensation and hold the party responsible accountable for their actions. With the experience of Axelrod & Associates, P.A., by your side, you can pursue a personal injury claim or civil case with optimal support, ensuring that both your rights and interests are prioritized throughout the process.

Drunk Driving Collisions in Orangeburg

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a leading cause of accidents across the state, and Orangeburg is no exception. The injuries resulting from a collision caused by an intoxicated driver can range from broken bones and fractures to life-altering spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries.

In addition to physical damage, victims often suffer emotional and financial repercussions.

The Impact of DUI on Accident Victims

DUI accidents have devastating consequences, affecting not only the victims but also their families. Survivors often face an uphill battle because they face costly medical bills, loss of income, physical limitations, and emotional distress.

In the most tragic cases, where a loved one has passed away due to an accident, families may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim to cover medical expenses, funeral costs, and other losses. Pursuing a claim against the intoxicated driver serves to hold them accountable while also supporting your financial recovery.

If you’ve been injured in a DUI accident in Orangeburg, we can evaluate your case and help you understand what to expect from the legal process.

The Personal Injury Claim Process

For accident victims, initiating a personal injury claim can seem like an overwhelming task. This process is intended to help cover expenses related to the injuries sustained in the crash, including medical costs, rehabilitation, lost wages, and pain and suffering. After an accident involving an intoxicated driver, we can guide you through each stage, from investigating the circumstances to negotiating with insurance companies and filing the appropriate legal documents.

Axelrod & Associates, P.A., can work with you to gather — and present — evidence showing that the intoxicated driver was at fault, which is essential for obtaining compensation. In DUI cases, this often includes evidence of the driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) at the time of the collision. When this evidence is properly presented, it increases your chances of receiving a settlement that accurately reflects the scope of your losses.

Financial Compensation in Drunk Driving Cases in Orangeburg

Compensation in a DUI case aims to provide financial relief to accident victims by covering their direct and indirect losses. This may include medical expenses, therapy costs, and loss of income if the injury impacts your ability to work. Victims may also seek compensation for pain and suffering or loss of quality of life, particularly in cases involving serious or permanent injuries.

In cases of wrongful death, compensation can cover funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages related to the untimely loss of a loved one.

Civil Case Versus Criminal Case in DUI Accidents

Drunk driving accidents often lead to both criminal and civil proceedings. The intoxicated driver may face criminal charges, such as DUI or reckless driving, with potential penalties, including jail time, fines, and license suspension. However, these criminal proceedings do not compensate the accident victims. A personal injury claim, which is a civil case, allows victims to pursue financial compensation directly from the at-fault driver.

Axelrod & Associates, P.A., can represent you in this civil case, ensuring your rights are defended and that your claim is presented with compelling evidence. Although civil and criminal cases may share some of the same evidence, for example, blood alcohol content results or accident reconstruction data, they are separate processes. The civil claim focuses solely on compensating the victim, making it an essential step in your recovery process.

Legal Support After a DUI Accident

After a DUI accident, it is essential to work with an experienced legal team that can represent your interests throughout the personal injury claim process. This includes negotiating with insurance companies, which may attempt to settle claims quickly and for less than the case is truly worth. Having an attorney on your side provides you with an advocate who can counter these tactics and work to secure a settlement that genuinely covers your losses.

Additionally, in cases where negotiations do not result in a fair settlement, we can file a claim on your behalf and represent you in court if necessary. This approach ensures that every option is explored in seeking the compensation you deserve.

FAQs About Orangeburg, SC Drunk Driving Accident Laws

What Is the Average Settlement for a Drunk Driving Accident in SC?

Settlements for DUI accidents in the state can vary widely depending on factors like the severity of injuries, medical costs, lost wages, and the impact on the victim’s quality of life. Non-economic damages (mental anguish, distress, loss of companionship) can bolster the compensation amount. We can provide more specific insights into potential compensation after we have reviewed your case.

Is Drunk Driving Covered Under Tort Law?

Yes, drunk driving is addressed under tort law in civil cases, where a victim can file a personal injury claim against the intoxicated driver for damages incurred. This means that if the at-fault driver is a government official (police officer, government medical personnel, school teacher, etc.), they are not immune to DUI law. Tort law outlines exceptions to immunity.

How Long Does It Take to Settle a Car Accident Claim?

Settlement times vary based on case complexity, willingness to negotiate, and other factors. Some cases may resolve within months, while others, especially those involving severe injuries, may take longer. If the insurance company offers a low-ball settlement, and we move to a civil claim, the length of time it takes can be longer.

How Long Does a Reckless Driving Ticket Stay on Your Record?

A reckless driving ticket in the state generally remains on your driving record for several years, impacting insurance rates and possibly future legal proceedings. Depending on whether this is a first-time or repeat offense, your record could reflect the ticket for three years or more.

Whether you are dealing with physical injuries, emotional distress, or financial setbacks due to lost income, securing compensation through a personal injury claim with the help of an Orangeburg drunk driving accident lawyer can alleviate some of the burden caused by a drunk driver’s actions.

Axelrod & Associates, P.A., can advocate for you every step of the way, ensuring that your rights are upheld and that you receive a fair outcome in your case.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.