Helping Victims Who Have Been Injured by a Drunk Driver

Drunk driving accidents affect countless people every year in Indianapolis. The results of these car accidents can be profound, affecting individuals and families alike. At Wade Injury Lawyers, our Indianapolis drunk driving accident attorneys have worked on numerous such cases, and we fully understand the potentially devastating impacts that a drunk driving motor vehicle accident can have.

Our attorneys have extensive experience helping victims claim justice and get due compensation from the other driver. If you happen to be involved in driving under the influence of an alcohol (DUI) incident, you can get in touch with us immediately.

What Are Common Injuries and Long-Lasting Consequences of DUI Accidents?

DUI accidents can cause various types of injuries. Drivers under the influence of alcohol are visually impaired, tend to have slower reactions, struggle with coordination, and often make wrong judgments in traffic situations. Due to this, the potential for serious injuries is higher in drunk driving incidents compared to regular road accidents. The most common injuries resulting from drunk driving are:

• Broken/dislocated bones, including sprained and broken joints such as ankles and wrists.
• Amputation if the injuries to the limbs are severe enough.
• Brain injuries, which can range from mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries that can take months or even years to recover from.
• Spinal cord injuries, which could lead to temporary or permanent paralysis.
• Burns, which can require extensive medical treatment, including skin grafts and plastic surgery.
• Internal injuries, including bruising from blunt force trauma or puncture wounds.
• Bruises and lacerations, which can sometimes result in significant blood loss.

Apart from immediate injuries, drunk driving accidents can lead to various long-lasting consequences. For example, medical bills may pile up, which can be hard for an accident victim to handle if they are facing potential loss of employment due to injuries. Some victims also suffer from an inability to engage in their favorite hobbies or sports activities.

It’s not uncommon for victims to experience ongoing mental health symptoms after an accident. This can include anxiety about driving or even leaving the house or depression because of the impact on their day-to-day lives. It’s also possible for drunk driving accident victims to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which requires therapy and other mental health interventions.

What Are the DUI-Related Laws in Indianapolis?

The drunk driving incidents in the United States are regulated at the state level, meaning that Indianapolis complies with Indiana state laws when it comes to DUI cases. Indiana has a zero-tolerance approach for such incidents, with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above 0.08% determined to be operating under the influence, which is the most common limit used across the country. However, there are some situations where a lower BAC can result in drunk driving. For example, the legal limit for commercial drivers who are working is 0.04%, and those under the age of 21 cannot have a BAC that is more than 0.02%.

It’s also possible for alcohol to be a determining factor in the crash, even if the other driver didn’t have a BAC over the limit. The state recognizes that alcohol of any level can affect driving, making it possible to charge the perpetrators regardless of BAC levels.  If someone is showing signs of impairment and admits to drinking or has alcohol in their system, as shown in a chemical test, it could still be categorized as a drunk driving incident.

Can You Sue the Business That Served the Other Driver?

Indiana DUI accident laws also include Dram Shop Laws. These laws allow victims to hold bars or restaurants accountable if they sell alcohol to someone visibly too drunk, and this person then causes an incident. Dram Shop Laws allow victims to seek further compensation in certain cases through a car accident claim. The Dram Shop Laws are attached to a business when it receives its liquor license. The law requires a business serving alcohol to put processes in place to ensure that someone is not overserved or intoxicated to the point that they pose a liability to others.

However, keep in mind that the inebriating effects of alcohol are not immediate. In some cases, the person may have been fine when they were being served at the bar or restaurant only to become too intoxicated to safely operate a vehicle later on. These situations can be complex, so if you think that you might have a case to sue a bar or restaurant as part of your drunk driving case, it’s best to speak with an experienced attorney about your options and what this process looks like.

How Do You Recover Damages After a DUI Car Accident in Indianapolis?

Indiana laws are designed to allow DUI victims to get indemnifications to the maximum extent. This means that affected persons can seek reimbursement for:

• Medical expenses, including immediate medical treatment as well as ongoing expenses, such as physical therapy or necessary medical equipment
• Property damages
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering

Indiana follows comparative negligence, which means your compensation in a DUI accident claim may be reduced if you’re found partially responsible for the crash. Consulting with a skilled Indianapolis drunk driving accident lawyer can maximize your chances of receiving the full compensation you deserve.

DUI-related laws in Indianapolis also include a statute of limitations. In other words, this gives victims the deadline to file claims within two years of the accident. However, if you are planning for a personal injury claim, it’s always better to do it as soon as possible. Gathering evidence and medical records, interviewing witnesses, and completing legal paperwork can take time.

How Can a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Provide Assistance?

One of the most effective ways of protecting your rights as a DUI victim is to seek assistance from personal injury law firms specializing in such incidents. A qualified personal injury attorney can assess your case and leverage their expertise to get you full compensation.

Drunk driving accident attorneys will get involved in evidence gathering to build a strong case to your advantage. They will also deal with insurance companies on your behalf and make sure that you get full compensation.

In addition, if the case goes to court, you will need an experienced personal injury lawyer who can represent you during proceedings. The chances of a positive outcome are extremely higher if you are represented by a seasoned attorney who can negotiate effectively and navigate legal complexities with ease.

Having an expert Indianapolis drunk driving accident lawyer on your side can be a relief while you deal with the consequences of the crash. Thanks to them, you will no longer need to get familiar with complicated laws and legal jargon, handle papers, and negotiate with insurance. Instead, you will have a chance to focus on healing while waiting for maximum compensation.

Contact Wade Injury Lawyers & Get Full Compensation

Reach out to the Indianapolis drunk driving accident attorney at Wade Injury Lawyers by calling  765-563-4644 for a consultation, and let us handle the case for you. With our personalized and transparent approach, we guarantee supportive and professional legal guidance that delivers.