More than 10,000 people died in 2015 as a result of drunk driving. Countless more people were injured in accidents that involved an impaired driver. More than one million people were arrested for drunk driving in that year. There’s not much a safe driver can do to prevent this kind of crashes, other than be aware of the road and traffic conditions. It’s important to avoid distractions that could make getting into an accident more likely.
Compensation
People who were injured in car accidents caused by an impaired driver may be eligible for compensation from the insurance company or directly from the drunk driver. Drivers typically have a DWI lawyer in Nassau County, NY to represent them in a criminal trial. However, an experienced personal injury attorney may represent a client who got hurt in an accident or the family members of someone who died in a drunk driving crash. Injured victims may be eligible for reimbursement of their medical expenses, lost wages or pain and suffering. Family members of deceased victims might be eligible for loss of companionship compensation as well as wages the victim could have earned over their lifetime if they hadn’t been killed. The Law Offices of Joseph J. Perrini, III may represent a client or family members of someone involved in this type of accident.
Consequences
Drunk drivers are typically arrested when they come in contact with a law enforcement officer. At that point, they need to hire an experienced DWI lawyer in Nassau County, NY. This could cost them thousands of dollars. They may need to pay fines or spend time in jail as a consequence of their crime. After the criminal case has been resolved, they may be sued by the victims of the crash.
Accident victims should seek information soon after the crash. Click here to learn more about your options for compensation and support throughout the criminal case as the drunk driver gets prosecuted for their crime. The criminal process can be confusing for victims, and a personal injury attorney can offer guidance and support.