Getting hit by a drunk driver can be a traumatic experience, leaving victims with injuries, financial burdens, and emotional distress. If you’ve been in this situation, you may be wondering, “I got hit by a drunk driver; what am I entitled to?” In Texas, victims of drunk driving accidents are often entitled to compensation for an assortment of damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. At Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers, our experienced car accident attorneys help clients gain knowledge of their rights and pursue fair compensation after a drunk driving accident.
What Types of Compensation Can I Seek?
If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver, you may be able to receive compensation for various types of losses, depending on the impact the accident has had on your life. Common categories include:
- Medical Expenses: Drunk driving accidents can lead to serious injuries that require ongoing medical care. Compensation can cover hospital bills, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and other related costs.
- Lost Wages and Future Earnings: If your injuries prevent you from working temporarily or permanently, you may be eligible for compensation for lost income. This can also include loss of future earnings if your ability to work is affected long-term.
- Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident may also qualify you to receive payment. This includes mental suffering, anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) related to the accident.
- Property Damage: In addition to injuries, a drunk driving accident may cause significant damage to your vehicle. Compensation can cover repairs needed or the pay for the replacement value of your car.
What Is the Average Settlement for Drunk Driving Accidents?
Settlement amounts in drunk driving cases vary widely based on the details of the accident. Things like the severity of the injuries, the extent of the property damage, and how the victim’s life is affected all play a role. For minor injuries, settlements might be a few thousand dollars, but serious cases can bring hundreds of thousands. Each case is unique. Costs like medical bills, lost income, and emotional suffering all impact the final settlement. A skilled attorney can assess the value of your claim and pursue fair compensation for your situation.
Average Settlement for a Rear-End Collision by a Drunk Driver
Rear-end crashes caused by drunk drivers happen more often than they should, and they can lead to severe injuries, especially when they occur at high speeds. Settlements for these accidents vary, but they usually cover medical bills, pain and suffering, and vehicle damage. At Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers, we help clients determine their cases’ total value and work hard to get fair compensation. If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver, our team is ready to support you and fight for the settlement you deserve.
How Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers Can Help Maximize Your Compensation
Filing a claim or lawsuit after being hit by a drunk driver can feel overwhelming. Here’s how Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers can support you:
- Full Case Review: We’ll review every detail of your case, such as medical records, accident reports, and possible future lost wages, to determine precisely how much compensation you deserve.
- Building Your Case: We’ll collect the necessary evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and expert opinions, to show that the drunk driver was at fault.
- Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies might try to give you less than you deserve. Our lawyers will fight to make sure you get a fair amount.
- Going to Court if Needed: If the insurance company doesn’t offer a fair amount, we are ready to take your case to court to pursue the best possible outcome.
Common Injuries in Drunk Driving Accidents
Drunk driving accidents often lead to serious injuries. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Back and Neck Injuries: Whiplash, slipped discs, and spine injuries are standard in rear-end crashes.
- Broken Bones: The force of a crash often breaks bones, which might need surgery and require a long recovery.
- Internal Injuries: Accidents can also cause bleeding inside the body or damage organs, needing immediate medical help.
- Head and Brain Injuries: High-impact crashes can cause brain injuries, leading to long-term problems with memory and thinking.
The Role of Punitive Damages in Texas Drunk Driving Cases
In Texas, you might get extra money, called punitive damages, if you’re hit by a drunk driver. This money isn’t to cover your losses but to punish the driver and discourage others from doing the same. Punitive damages can only be awarded by a court. Texas courts can award these damages when the driver’s actions are grossly negligent or malicious. A good lawyer can help improve your chances of obtaining this additional money.
Steps to Take After Being Hit by a Drunk Driver
If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver, taking the correct steps can protect your health and your legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a medical professional to document any potential injuries.
- Call the Police: A police report is extremely important for your case, as it documents the accident and provides evidence of the driver’s intoxication.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. If possible, collect contact information from any witnesses.
- Contact an Attorney: An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process, gather evidence, and communicate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Contact Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers Today to Discuss Your Case
Being hit by a drunk driver can change your life in an instant, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers, we are dedicated to fighting for victims’ rights and pursuing the compensation they deserve. Our skilled team of lawyers understands the ins and outs of drunk driving cases and will work diligently to build a strong case on your behalf. If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident, contact us online for a free consultation or call us today at (214) 777-7777. Let us help you seek justice and the financial support you need to recover and move forward.