I Got Hit By a Drunk Driver, What Am I Entitled To?

May 10, 2024Personal Injury

I Got Hit By a Drunk Driver, What Am I Entitled To_ Image

I got hit by a drunk driver, what am I entitled to? Being hit by a drunk driver in St. Louis, Missouri, can turn your life upside down. As you work through the painful aftermath of the accident, you may be wondering what your legal rights are and what compensation you might be entitled to receive. The compassionate St. Louis drunk driving accident attorneys at Goldblatt + Singer can guide you through this challenging time and fight for the justice you deserve.

Understanding the Extent of Your Losses

When a drunk driver causes an accident, the repercussions can be extensive and profound. Victims frequently endure a broad spectrum of losses, such as:

  • Physical injuries, ranging from minor cuts and bruises to catastrophic, life-altering conditions
  • Emotional trauma, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Financial losses, including medical bills, lost wages, and property damage
  • Loss of quality of life due to ongoing pain, disability, or inability to participate in once-enjoyed activities

What are your legal rights after a drunk driving accident? As an accident victim, you can seek compensation for these losses through a personal injury claim. However, assessing the value of your claim and navigating negotiations with insurance companies can be intricate and daunting, particularly when contending with the physical and emotional aftermath of the accident.

The Role of Punitive Damages in Drunk Driving Cases

I got hit by a drunk driver, what am I entitled to? Besides compensatory damages (compensation), which seek to restore you to the state you were in before the accident, drunk driving cases may also involve punitive damages. Punitive damages are intended to penalize drunk drivers for their reprehensible conduct.

In Missouri, a court may grant punitive damages when the defendant acted with flagrant and deliberate disregard for the safety of others. Drunk driving falls within this category, as the choice to operate a vehicle while intoxicated demonstrates a disregard for the safety and welfare of others.

While punitive damages can significantly increase the overall value of your claim, they are not available in a settlement. You must take your case to court to obtain this award. Additionally, punitive damages are rarely awarded. Consequently, punitive damages are not intended to be compensation for you. They are punishment for the at-fault party.

Factors That Influence Drunk Driving Accident Settlements

Every drunk driving accident case is unique. This means the settlement you may be entitled to receive will depend on a variety of factors. Some of the critical considerations that can impact your settlement offer include:

  • The severity of your injuries and the extent of your medical treatment
  • The length of your recovery period and any long-term or permanent disabilities you may face
  • The strength of the evidence against the drunk driver, such as BAC test results and eyewitness testimony
  • The drunk driver’s insurance coverage and assets available for compensation
  • The jurisdiction in which the accident occurred and the specific laws that apply to your case
  • The skill and experience of your personal injury attorney in handling drunk driving accident claims

Holding Drunk Drivers Accountable

In the aftermath of a drunk driving accident, the at-fault driver may face criminal charges and penalties. However, it’s essential to understand that a criminal case is separate from a civil personal injury claim. However, if the impaired driver is acquitted of a crime, you still have the right to pursue compensation through a civil lawsuit. Don’t know what is the average settlement hit by a drunk driver? Unsure of the average settlement for rear-end collisions by drunk drivers?

At Goldblatt + Singer, we are passionate about holding drunk drivers accountable and securing justice for accident victims. Every victim of a drunk driving accident deserves personalized attention, compassionate guidance, and aggressive legal representation. Our attorneys will stand by your side during the entire process, tirelessly advocating to safeguard your rights and procure the average drunk driver settlement amount essential for rebuilding your life.

The Importance of Acting Quickly After a Drunk Driving Accident

If a drunk driver has hit you in St. Louis, Missouri, it’s crucial to take action as soon as possible to protect your legal rights. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims dictates a five-year period from the accident date in which an injured person can file a claim against the at-fault party. However, waiting to pursue your claim can make gathering evidence, locating witnesses, and building a strong case more difficult.

Furthermore, insurance companies frequently employ strategies to reduce their payouts and might attempt to exploit accident victims who lack representation or familiarity with the legal system. Consulting with a seasoned personal injury attorney early in the process can help level the playing field, ensuring that your rights are safeguarded.

At Goldblatt + Singer, we provide complimentary initial consultations to aid accident victims in comprehending their legal avenues and making well-informed decisions about their cases. Throughout your consultation, we will attentively hear your narrative and address your inquiries. We would also offer candid advice regarding the optimal course of action for your individual circumstances.

The Road to Recovery

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At Goldblatt + Singer, we understand the challenges you face after being injured by a drunk driver, and we are here to help you navigate the road to recovery with compassion, dedication, and skill.

Our legal team will oversee every facet of your case. Unsure of how to prove fault in drunk driving accidents? Our services span from scrutinizing the accident, amassing evidence, engaging in negotiations with insurance firms, and representing you in court. In addition, we will exert unwavering effort to obtain compensation for the losses you incurred due to the crash. For instance, this includes medical expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and any other losses.

Don’t Let a Drunk Driver’s Actions Define Your Future

I got hit by a drunk driver, what am I entitled to? If a driver driving under the influence has hit you in St. Louis, Missouri, don’t let their reckless actions define your future. You have the right to seek justice, hold the drunk driver accountable, and secure the compensation you need.

At Goldblatt + Singer, we are committed to fighting for the rights of drunk driving accident victims and their families. We have the knowledge, experience, and resources to take on complex cases and secure the best compensation for victims of drunk driving accidents.

Take action immediately after your drunk driving crashes. Call (314) 231-4100 or reach out online to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. Our dedicated St. Louis drunk driving accident attorneys are here to listen, guide, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Consequently, let our law firm help you take the first step toward a brighter future and a full recovery.

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