Hurt by a Drunk Driver? Need a Drunk Driving Lawyer?
Drunk driving remains a serious problem in Raleigh, North Carolina, often resulting in drunk driving accidents, serious car accidents, and even wrongful death claims. When an intoxicated driver gets behind the wheel, the consequences can be devastating, including catastrophic injuries, property damage, and significant medical expenses. If you or a loved one has been involved in a drunk driving accident, it’s crucial to have an experienced Raleigh car accident lawyer on your side to fight for your rights.
Under North Carolina law, those injured by a drunk driver have the legal right to seek compensation for their losses, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Navigating a personal injury claim can be complex, especially in cases involving insurance companies, proving fault, and liable parties. This is why hiring skilled drunk driving accident attorneys can make all the difference.
At Mogy Law, our dedicated team has been representing accident victims across Raleigh, NC, for years. We specialize in drunk driving accident cases, dwi-related accidents, and other motor vehicle accidents. Whether you’re dealing with insurance coverage disputes, contributory negligence issues, or settlement negotiations, we are here to help. Our team also works with accident reconstruction experts and leverages medical records and police reports to build a strong case on your behalf.
If you’ve suffered personal injuries or internal injuries due to a drunk driving accident, don’t let the at-fault party or their insurance carrier take advantage of you. You may be entitled to recover damages for lost income, medical costs, and more. We are committed to helping you through the legal process, from understanding insurance company tactics to holding the at-fault driver and other liable parties accountable.
Our law firm offers a free case evaluation to injured victims in Raleigh, NC, and throughout Wake County. We understand the challenges that auto accident survivors face, and we’re here to provide the legal guidance you need to secure the financial relief you deserve. Don’t let the drunk driver or their own insurance company off the hook—our goal is to help you recover compensation and achieve justice.
Contact Mogy Law today to schedule your FREE consultation. Let our experienced team of Raleigh drunk driving accident lawyers and personal injury attorneys fight for you. Together, we’ll work to prove liability, handle your car accident claim, and ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to under North Carolina law.
What Is a Drunk Driving Accident Claim in North Carolina?
A drunk driving accident can have life-altering consequences for accident victims, including personal injuries, catastrophic injuries, and even wrongful death claims. Under North Carolina law, injured victims have a legal right to file a personal injury claim to seek compensation for their losses, including medical expenses, lost income, and property damage.
Liability in a drunk driving accident often involves proving that the intoxicated driver or other parties responsible, such as establishments serving alcohol, contributed to the crash. This may include cases covered under dram shop laws, where businesses that served alcohol to an intoxicated person could be held liable for damages.
Drivers are prohibited from operating a motor vehicle if their blood alcohol content (BAC) exceeds the legal limit of 0.08. A driver exceeding this limit may face charges for driving under the influence (DUI) or dwi-related accidents. If their impaired driver’s ability results in a serious car accident, they may be held liable for damages, including medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
When pursuing a car accident claim, injured victims need to address challenges such as proving liability, navigating insurance company tactics, and dealing with settlement negotiations. Cases involving contributory negligence or disputes over insurance coverage can complicate the process.
Hiring experienced Raleigh car accident lawyers or drunk driving accident attorneys is critical for ensuring that injured parties can navigate the legal process effectively. These attorneys can work with accident reconstruction experts, analyze police reports and medical records, and advocate for fair compensation during settlement negotiations.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a driving accident caused by an at-fault driver, contact a trusted law firm for a free case evaluation. A skilled lawyer can help you recover financial relief for your internal injuries, head injuries, and other damages, while holding the liable parties accountable. Don’t face the complexities of car accident cases alone—secure the compensation you deserve with the help of an experienced legal team.
Schedule your free consultation today. Let us help you rebuild after a devastating auto accident in Wake County or beyond.
Common Injuries Caused by Drunk Drivers in Raleigh, NC
A drunk driving accident in North Carolina can result in minor and severe injuries. If you were involved in a drunk driving accident, you must seek immediate medical attention. A medical doctor can determine the type and extent of your injuries. Your lawyer will use your medical report to build a strong case on your behalf.
Here are the common injuries caused by drunk drivers in Raleigh, NC:
Spinal Cord Injuries – A sudden blow to your spine can lead to dislocation, vertebrae fracture, nerve damage, and even paralysis. You could lose function and sensation below the injured area. Spinal cord injuries can also result in severe problems, including infections, blood clots, and chronic pain.
Neck Injuries – A neck injury can occur after any type of impact on your body. This is because your head will move back and forth quickly during an accident. The sudden force or movement strains the neck and damages the ligaments, bones, nerves, and even muscles.
Broken Bones – A direct blow from a vehicle can lead to broken bones. You can, therefore, break your leg, wrist, arm, and ankle if you are involved in a drunk driving accident. Broken bones can lead to infections, prolonged pain, blood poisoning, nerve damage, and delayed healing.
Eye Injuries – Your eyes can be damaged in a drunk driving accident. Hitting the seat, airbag, or any hard surface can cause serious eye injuries. Eye injuries can be dangerous. They can lead to redness, swelling, and pain. And they can cause low vision and even blindness.
Hearing Loss – You can also suffer from hearing loss after a drunk driving accident. Head trauma and airbags, for instance, can cause hearing loss. Signs of hearing loss include; dizziness, pressure or fullness in the ears, muffled hearing, and tinnitus.
Traumatic Brain Injuries – Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are one of the serious injuries frequently resulting from drunk driving accidents. A TBI can have severe and long-lasting impacts, including cognitive impairment, memory loss, and emotional instability. The severity of TBIs underscores the critical need for immediate medical evaluation and ongoing treatment.
What to Do After a Drunk Driving Accident?
There are some things you need to do after a drunk driving accident in Raleigh. You must do these things to protect yourself and increase your chances of recovering compensation for your injuries and losses. But your safety should always come first.
Here is what to do after a drunk driving accident:
Filing a personal injury claim is crucial to help you recover from the physical, emotional, and financial impacts of the accident.
Call the Police
The first thing you need to do is call the police. Do not be afraid of the police. They will not force you to admit fault. Why? Because some rights protect you. The officers will assess the accident scene and prepare a police report, which will include details about the intoxicated driver and the legal implications of their actions. Your Raleigh drunk driving lawyer will use the police report to recover compensation on your behalf.
Gather Evidence
You are probably injured in your drunk driving accident. And you are not at fault for the accident. This means you are eligible to pursue monetary compensation for your injuries and losses. That is why you need to gather evidence. How? Use your smartphone to take pictures of your injuries, damage to your vehicle, and the surrounding area.
Understanding the legal timeframes for filing personal injury cases related to car accidents is crucial, as these statutes of limitations can vary based on specifics such as whether the accident involved a drunk driver or resulted in fatalities.
Seek Medical Attention
Your health should be your top priority. So, do not ignore minor injuries. A drunk driving accident can lead to minor injuries. Please do not ignore them. Instead, seek medical attention immediately. See a doctor to examine your injuries and determine the type and extent of these injuries.
Collect the Necessary Information
Get the names and contact information of the driver and witnesses. Remember, your case can go to trial. If you do not have witnesses, you can lose your case. That is why you must get their names and contact information before they leave the accident scene. Your lawyer will be able to get witness statements.
Contact Your Raleigh Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
If you suffered serious injuries in a drunk driving accident, car accident lawyers can help you recover compensation from the at-fault party. You may not have any experience handling these types of cases. It is better to let a professional handle your case. Your lawyer will protect your rights and ensure you get fair compensation.
Are you looking for a skilled drunk driving accident lawyer in Raleigh, North Carolina? Contact (901) 443-9133 to talk to a drunk driving accident attorney from Mogy Law.
Statute of Limitations in North Carolina for Drunk Driving Accidents
The statute of limitation for drunk driving accidents in North Carolina is 3 years from the date of the injury or accident. If, however, the drunk driving accident resulted in wrongful death, you have 2 years from the date of the death to file a wrongful death claim.
You do not want to miss these deadlines. Why? You can lose your right to pursue compensation. We, therefore, recommend retaining the services of a knowledgeable drunk driving accident attorney.
Motor vehicle accidents related to drunk driving are prevalent in North Carolina, with significant fatalities and injuries reported, particularly in Wake County.
Types of Damages You Can Recover from Drunk Driving Accidents in Raleigh, NC
If you’ve been involved in a drunk driving accident in North Carolina, you may be eligible to seek compensation for your losses. Under North Carolina law, injured victims of driving accidents, including dui accidents and dwi-related accidents, have the right to file a car accident claim against the at-fault party. Here are the three main types of damages you can recover:
Economic Damages
These compensatory damages cover direct monetary losses caused by the drunk driver. They include:
- Medical bills for treatment and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and lost income due to time off work
- Costs related to property damage
- Expenses for ongoing care related to catastrophic injuries or internal injuries
Economic damages are generally straightforward to calculate using medical records, bills, and income statements.
Non-Economic Damages
These damages compensate for non-monetary losses, which can be harder to quantify. They include:
- Pain and suffering resulting from personal injuries
- Emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium and inconvenience caused by the accident
Although more subjective, non-economic damages are critical in addressing the broader impact of the serious car accident on the victim’s life.
Punitive Damages
In cases where the intoxicated driver acted with extreme recklessness or disregard for others, the court may award punitive damages. These damages are designed to punish the at-fault driver and deter similar behavior, especially when the incident occurred due to blatant violations like exceeding the legal limit or negligence in their driver’s ability.
Why Hire a Raleigh Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer?
Raleigh drunk driving accident attorneys and car accident lawyers have extensive experience handling complex motor vehicle accident cases. They can help injured victims navigate the legal process, handle insurance companies, and address issues such as:
- Proving liability using police reports, medical evidence, and accident reconstruction experts
- Negotiating with the insurance carrier or the own insurance company to secure fair compensation
- Pursuing claims for medical costs, lost income, and property damage
- Addressing challenges like contributory negligence and identifying liable parties, including establishments serving alcohol under dram shop laws
Liability and Negligence in Drunk Driving Accidents
Drunk driving accidents can result in devastating consequences for accident victims, including personal injuries, catastrophic injuries, and significant financial losses. If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver, you have a legal right under North Carolina law to file a personal injury claim and seek compensation for your damages. Determining liability and proving negligence is crucial in pursuing your car accident claim effectively.
How to Prove Liability in a Drunk Driving Accident
To hold the at-fault driver and other liable parties accountable, you must establish four critical elements:
Duty of Care
All drivers have a legal duty to exercise reasonable care to avoid causing harm to others on the road. This includes obeying traffic laws, staying within the legal limit for blood alcohol content (BAC), and ensuring their driver’s ability is not impaired.
Breach of Duty of Care
An intoxicated driver breaches their duty of care by engaging in drunk driving or driving under the influence. This reckless behavior can lead to motor vehicle accidents that harm others. Evidence such as a police report, medical records, or the driver’s BAC level can help demonstrate this breach.
Causation
You must prove that the at-fault driver’s actions directly caused the drunk driving accident and your injuries. For example, an accident reconstruction expert can show how the incident occurred, linking the driver’s breach of duty to the crash.
Damages
Finally, you need to establish that you suffered actual damages due to the accident. These damages can include:
- Medical expenses for treatment of internal injuries, head injuries, or other personal injuries
- Property damage to your vehicle
- Lost wages and lost income from time off work
- Pain and suffering or emotional distress
Compensation for Injured Victims in Raleigh, NC
A Raleigh drunk driving accident can have long-lasting effects on your life. By filing a car accident claim, you can recover compensation for:
- Immediate and future medical costs
- Expenses that include medical bills and ongoing treatment
- Lost wages or diminished earning capacity
- Damages for pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life
Why You Need a Raleigh Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
Handling the legal process and negotiating with an insurance company or insurance carrier can be overwhelming. An experienced Raleigh car accident lawyer or drunk driving accident attorney can guide you through challenges like settlement negotiations, proving fault, and disputes over insurance coverage. They can also work to hold all parties responsible, including businesses serving alcohol, accountable under dram shop laws.
Our law firm specializes in car accident cases, dui accidents, and dwi-related accidents in Wake County and beyond. We help clients secure compensation by gathering medical evidence, collaborating with accident reconstruction experts, and addressing factors like contributory negligence.
How Much Does a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer in Raleigh, NC Charge?
Many drunk driving accident lawyers in Raleigh work on a contingency fee basis. You will not pay any money upfront. In fact, these lawyers offer a FREE initial consultation. A lawyer will meet you to discuss your case. Your lawyer will only take a small percentage of the compensation.
FAQ: Drunk Driving Accidents in Raleigh, NC
What should I do if I’m injured in a drunk driving accident?
If you’ve been involved in a drunk driving accident, prioritize your safety and well-being. Seek immediate medical attention for any personal injuries or internal injuries. Notify the police and file a report to document how the incident occurred. Gather evidence such as photos of the scene, witness contact information, and relevant medical records. Lastly, contact an experienced Raleigh drunk driving accident lawyer to protect your legal rights and guide you through the legal process.
Can I recover compensation after a drunk driving accident?
Yes, injured victims of drunk driving accidents in North Carolina have the right to recover compensation for their losses. This includes medical expenses for treatment, lost wages from time off work, property damage to your vehicle, and compensation for pain, suffering, or emotional distress. Families of loved ones who passed away may also file wrongful death claims.
How do I prove liability in a drunk driving accident?
Proving liability requires demonstrating that the drunk driver owed you a duty of care, breached that duty by driving under the influence, and caused the accident through their negligence. You must also show that you suffered damages such as medical bills or property damage due to the crash. A lawyer can help by using medical evidence, police reports, and accident reconstruction experts to prove fault.
Can I sue the establishment that served alcohol to the drunk driver?
Under North Carolina law, you may be able to hold establishments serving alcohol accountable if they overserved an intoxicated person who later caused a motor vehicle accident. These claims fall under dram shop laws, which allow injured victims to seek compensation from businesses that contributed to the at-fault driver’s actions.
What challenges might I face when filing a car accident claim?
Filing a car accident claim can involve disputes with the insurance company over coverage, as well as difficulties proving contributory negligence, which may affect the outcome of your case. Settlement negotiations with the at-fault party’s insurance carrier or your own insurance company can also be complex without legal representation.
How much does it cost to hire a drunk driving accident lawyer?
Most drunk driving accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they win your case. Many law firms, including ours, offer a free consultation or free case evaluation to help you understand your claim at no upfront cost.
What damages can I claim in a drunk driving accident case?
You may be eligible for three types of damages. Economic damages cover monetary losses, including medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages compensate for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In extreme cases involving reckless conduct, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the at-fault driver.
What if the drunk driver’s insurance isn’t enough to cover my losses?
If the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage is insufficient, you can explore filing a claim with your own insurance company under uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. Your attorney can review your policy and help you secure the financial relief you need.
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim?
In North Carolina, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. For wrongful death claims, the statute of limitations is typically two years. It’s essential to act quickly and consult a Raleigh car accident lawyer to avoid missing these deadlines.
How can a Raleigh drunk driving accident lawyer help me?
An experienced attorney can assist with proving liability, gathering evidence such as medical records and police reports, and working with accident reconstruction experts to strengthen your case. They handle negotiations with the insurance carrier and represent you in settlement discussions or court proceedings. Legal representation ensures you have the best chance to recover compensation and secure the financial relief you deserve.
Get Help from an Experience Raleigh Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
It is no secret that a drunk driving accident can leave you with physical, financial, and emotional hardship. You could lose your job and your family. And the accident could potentially cause severe injury or even death. Thankfully, North Carolina allows drunk driving accident victims to pursue compensation for their injuries and losses.
We, however, highly encourage you to hire a good drunk driving accident attorney to handle your case. A good lawyer understands the ins/outs of drunk driving laws, protects their client’s rights, handles settlement negotiations on behalf of their clients, and represents their clients in court if needed.
Our drunk driving accident lawyers at Mogy Law are ready to help you recover the maximum settlement from the insurance provider. We will not let the insurance company intimidate or force you to accept their lowball offer. We will fight hard for the settlement you deserve. We only get paid if we recover compensation.
Contact us at (901) 443-9133 for a FREE consultation. Our Raleigh drunk driving accident lawyer is ready to help you navigate the legal process and seek compensation.
