Richmond Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers

Richmond Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers

Richmond Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers

Drunk driving accidents happen too often in Richmond with devastating consequences, affecting not only your physical and emotional well-being but also your financial stability.

At Allen & Allen, our drunk driving accident lawyers in Richmond understand you may face one of the most challenging and emotionally taxing experiences of your life. At this difficult moment, we want you to know that you’re not alone. We are here to offer you compassionate support, guidance, and a helping hand in your journey toward justice and recovery.

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Richmond Drunk Driving Accident Guide

Why Choose Allen & Allen for Your Drunk Driving Accident Claim

Our team of experienced personal injury lawyers at Allen & Allen is not just here to represent your legal interests; we are committed to making your fight our fight. We will ensure your rights are protected, the insurance companies treat you fairly, and you recover the compensation you deserve.

We are passionate about ensuring that those responsible for our clients’ suffering are held accountable, and that those injured receive the compensation needed to rebuild their lives. Through the year, we have recovered hundreds of millions in settlements and verdicts for our clients in their time of need.

Our commitment is not just to the law but to you, the survivor, the loved one left behind, and the person whose life was forever altered. We will make your well-being our priority, and we are here to help you find hope and healing in the midst of this challenging time. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation.

How Much Does a Drunk Driving Accident Attorney in Richmond Cost?

When an intoxicated person gets behind the wheel and causes an accident that injuries you or someone you love, the person responsible for your injuries should pay for the harm they caused you. At Allen & Allen, we offer free consultations to discuss the merits of your case and your legal options. Should you choose to retain our services, you pay no upfront costs. Our fee comes out of the compensation we recover in your drunk driving case.

Hiring a lawyer is an investment that pays off in the amount of compensation you recover. Research shows that people who hire lawyers to handle their personal injury claims, including drunk driving claims, recover far more compensation—as much as 40% more—than people who do not hire a lawyer to handle their claim. That means, even after lawyer fees, you’ll recover more financial compensation when you retain the services of an experienced lawyer.

How Common Is Drunk Driving in Richmond, Virginia?

How Common Is Drunk Driving in Richmond, Virginia

DUI fatalities have dropped in the last three decades thanks to stricter laws and public awareness to crack down on drunk driving. But these preventable deaths continue to plague Virginia and the U.S. According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, of the 1,005 traffic deaths that occurred last year, 274—or 27 percent—were alcohol-related. On average, 19 drunk driving crashes occur, injuring 11 people and killing one person every day in Virginia.

How Does Alcohol Affect Drivers?

The impairing effects of alcohol can vary from person to person based on body weight, tolerance, and the amount of alcohol consumed. But, generally speaking, even a few drinks can significantly degrade driving because of their effect on the body.

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant. It slows down the brain and can cause delayed reactions to unexpected events, such as sudden stops or the need to swerve to avoid obstacles. It can also exacerbate feelings of fatigue and drowsiness, leading to impaired alertness and attention while driving. Drowsy driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving, and together, they create a recipe for disaster.

Alcohol also affects muscle coordination, making it harder for drivers to coordinate their hands, feet, and eyes to perform necessary driving tasks, such as braking, accelerating, and steering. It can interfere with fine and gross motor skills, making it difficult for drivers to maintain proper control of the vehicle. This can lead to problems like swerving, erratic steering, and difficulty with basic driving tasks.

It can also cause visual distortions and impair depth perception, making it difficult for drivers to accurately judge the distance between their vehicle and other objects or other vehicles on the road.

Virginia Drunk Driving Laws

Under Virginia law, it is illegal to drive if you have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of:

  • 0.08 percent or higher for drivers 21 years old or older
  • 0.02 percent or higher for drivers under the age of 21
  • 0.04 percent or higher for drivers who hold a commercial driver’s license

Even if a driver doesn’t have a BAC that exceeds the legal limit, the prosecutor can still charge them if they can prove alcohol impaired their ability to drive safely.

Personal Injury Claims vs. Criminal DUI Charges

Personal injury claims and criminal DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charges are two distinct legal matters and, in many cases, a single drunk driving accident can result in both. Here is how the two legal actions differ.

Personal injury

Personal injury claims are civil lawsuits brought by the victims of a drunk driving accident against the at-fault driver (the person who drove under the influence). The goal is to seek compensation for the injuries and damages sustained as a result of the accident. The injured party or their legal representative files personal injury claims.

To succeed in a personal injury case, the plaintiff must demonstrate that the defendant’s negligence or wrongdoing caused their injuries. This is often proven by a preponderance of the evidence, meaning it’s more likely than not that the defendant is liable.

The outcome typically results in a monetary settlement or award to compensate the victim for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. These claims do not result in criminal penalties for the at-fault driver.

Criminal DUI Charges

Criminal DUI Charges

On the other hand, the state brings criminal DUI charges against the driver who operated a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Criminal DUI charges hold the driver accountable for violating the law and impose penalties, such as fines, license suspension, probation, or even incarceration.

In a criminal DUI case, the burden of proof is higher. The prosecution must prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, which is a more stringent standard. This requires a higher level of evidence to secure a conviction.

A driver convicted of DUI may face criminal penalties, such as fines, probation, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, and even imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense. A criminal conviction can also lead to a criminal record.

Does the Outcome of the Criminal Case Affect the Personal Injury Claim?

The outcome of a DUI conviction can potentially affect the personal injury claim for compensation. But even if a driver isn’t convicted of DUI, you can still hold them liable for the injuries they cause.

Should I Accept the First Offer from the Insurance Company?

In the aftermath of a drunk driving accident, you may be overwhelmed with medical bills and other expenses. The financial burden is only exacerbated if you or your loved one is unable to work during their recovery.

A check from the insurance company may feel like a welcome sight. But before you accept that offer, talk with an attorney to understand the extent of the damages you suffered and what your claim is really worth.

Insurance companies want to settle claims quickly with the hopes that you don’t consult a lawyer. They are notorious for undervaluing claims and shortchanging accident victims. If you accept their offer, you waive your right to seek more compensation if your injuries have a longer-lasting impact on your life.

Don’t let the insurance company shortchange you. Protect your right to full and fair compensation. Consult a drunk driving accident attorney with Allen & Allen today.

Who Can I Sue in a Richmond Drunk Driving Accident?

In a Virginia drunk driving accident, you may hold various parties liable. The primary liable party is typically the driver who operated a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

However, you might seek compensation from multiple parties:

  • The Drunk Driver: The most obvious liable party in a drunk driving accident is the individual who drove while intoxicated. You can hold this driver responsible for causing the accident and the resulting injuries and damages.
  • The Driver’s Insurance Company: Most drivers in Virginia must buy liability insurance coverage. In cases of drunk driving accidents, victims can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company to seek compensation for their injuries and damages. The insurance policy typically covers costs up to the policy limits.
  • Vehicle Owner: If the drunk driver operated a vehicle owned by someone else, you may hold the owner of the vehicle liable. Virginia law allows for the owner’s liability under certain circumstances, particularly if they knowingly allowed an intoxicated individual to use their vehicle.

What Compensation is Available in a Drunk Driving Accident?

If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a crash involving a drunk driver, you may recover compensation for your accident-related damages.

These include:

  • Medical Expenses: You can claim compensation for your medical bills, including current and future expenses related to your injuries.
  • Property Damage: If in the accident you damaged your vehicle or other property, you can seek compensation for repair or replacement costs.
  • Pain and Suffering: You may recover non-economic damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and suffering caused by the accident.
  • Lost Earnings: If your injuries result in missed work and lost income, you can claim compensation for past and future lost income.
  • Wrongful Death: If a loved one died in a drunk driving accident, surviving family members may recover compensation for their losses, such as funeral and burial expenses, through a wrongful death claim.

Why Should I Hire a Lawyer from Allen & Allen to Handle My Drunk Driving Accident Claim?

Why Should I Hire a Lawyer from Allen & Allen to Handle My Drunk Driving Accident Claim

The complexity of personal injury law and the challenges of dealing with insurance companies make it necessary to seek legal representation. An experienced attorney can significantly increase your chances of obtaining a fair and just settlement or verdict, ensuring that you receive the compensation you need to recover from your injuries and losses.

Here are some ways a lawyer with Allen & Allen can assist with your case:

Legal Advice

Our personal injury attorneys have a deep understanding of the legal system, including the specific laws and regulations related to drunk driving accidents in your state. We can navigate the complexities of your case and ensure that your rights are protected.

Investigation

Your lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation of the accident, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, and any available surveillance footage. This can establish liability and strengthen your case.

Case Valuation

Your lawyer can assess the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses. We can calculate the value of your claim and negotiate for a fair settlement.

Negotiation

Our lawyers are skilled negotiators and can engage with insurance companies on your behalf. We know how to counter lowball settlement offers and work to maximize the compensation you receive.

Court Representation

If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, your attorney can represent you in court. We will build a strong case and present it to a judge and jury to seek the compensation you deserve.

Understanding of Legal Processes

Legal proceedings involve complex deadlines, paperwork, and court appearances. Your lawyer is experienced in handling these processes, ensuring that your case progresses smoothly and efficiently.

Advocate for Your Rights

Your lawyer will fight for your rights and best interests. We can protect you from tactics used by insurance companies to minimize payouts and recover the compensation you deserve.

Access to Resources

Our attorneys have access to a network of experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, and financial experts, who can provide crucial testimony or evidence to support your case.

Emotional Support

Your attorney can provide support, guidance, and peace of mind during the emotionally challenging medical recovery and legal process.

No Fees Upfront

Our personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, so we only get paid if you win your case. This arrangement can make legal representation more accessible, as you won’t have to pay legal fees upfront.

Contact a Richmond Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer from Allen & Allen Today

Drunk Driving Accident Attorney, Richard Armstrong

Richard Armstrong, Richmond Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident in Richmond, you don’t have to bear the burden alone. Our compassionate team of Richmond drunk driving accident attorneys will stand by your side, guide you through the legal process, and help you on your path to healing and justice.

We will make your well-being our utmost priority, and we are committed to fighting tirelessly on your behalf. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can take, and we are dedicated to helping you rebuild your life.

Your story matters, and your voice deserves to be heard. Contact our Richmond personal injury attorneys today at (866) 552-5683 for your free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you find hope, healing, and the justice you deserve.

Our Richmond office

Allen, Allen, Allen & Allen

1809 Staples Mill Road
Richmond, VA 23230