DUI/DWI Incidents
Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) are serious offenses that pose significant risks to everyone on the road. These actions not only violate the law but also drastically increase the likelihood of accidents and personal injuries. When a driver operates a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs, their reaction time, judgment, and motor skills are compromised, leading to dangerous situations that often result in severe injuries.
A drunk driver has the potential to change your life forever and put you in need of a trustworthy team of DUI Lawyers Gaithersburg, MD. If you are a victim of a drunk driving incident, you may be confused and not know the steps you need to take to file a personal injury claim.
Common Personal Injuries in DUI/DWI Accidents
Accidents caused by DUI/DWI can lead to various types of personal injuries, ranging from minor to life-threatening. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Due to the sudden impact during a collision, occupants of the vehicle may experience whiplash, a condition where the neck is forcefully whipped back and forth. This can result in chronic pain and limited mobility.
- Head and Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are frequent in DUI/DWI accidents, especially if the person was not wearing a seatbelt or if the vehicle was struck at high speed. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, leading to long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: The force of an accident can damage the spinal cord, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and sometimes permanent changes to the individual’s lifestyle.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: DUI/DWI accidents can exert tremendous force on the body, leading to broken bones and fractures. Common fractures include those of the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis, which can require surgeries and lengthy recovery periods.
- Internal Injuries: The impact can also cause internal injuries such as damage to organs, internal bleeding, and punctured lungs. These injuries may not be immediately visible but can be life-threatening and require urgent medical attention.
Steps to Take After a DUI/DWI Accident
If you are involved in a DUI/DWI accident, taking the appropriate steps can significantly impact the outcome of any legal proceedings:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or concussions, may not present immediate symptoms.
- Contact Law Enforcement: Report the accident to the police and ensure that a formal report is filed. The police report can serve as critical evidence in both criminal and civil proceedings.
- Document the Scene: If possible, gather evidence at the scene, such as photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses who can provide statements later.
- Consult an Attorney: Contact a personal injury attorney who specializes in DUI/DWI cases. They can guide you through the legal process, help establish liability, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
DUI/DWI incidents often result in severe personal injuries that can have lasting physical, emotional, and financial impacts. Victims of these accidents have the right to seek compensation and hold the impaired driver accountable for their negligent actions. Understanding the legal avenues available can help victims navigate the aftermath of a DUI/DWI accident and work towards recovery.
What do all Those Acronyms Mean?
Depending on your state, there are different acronyms for driving under the influence. Lawyers who are licensed to practice in Gaithersburg and throughout MD can help you to understand Maryland’s DUI laws and how they may affect your claim.
DUI: Driving Under the Influence
DWI: Driving While Intoxicated
OUI: Operating Under the Influence. Under this classification, the driver can be charged even if they are not actually driving; the car can be stopped and not running and the driver can still be arrested.
Driving While Impaired: Even if a person’s BAC is under the legal limit, a police officer can make the decision that a driver is too impaired to safely drive.
BAC: Blood Alcohol Content. Across the country, it is illegal to operate a vehicle if your blood alcohol content is at or above 0.08%.
If you have been injured by an impaired driver in Gaithersburg, it may be in your best interest to discuss your situation with DUI lawyers who are licensed to protect DUI victims through MD.
What is the Difference Between a Drunk Driving Case and Other Personal Injury Cases?
When a drunk driver is arrested, they have to go through both criminal and civil court procedures. Criminal court only focuses on the driver and their resulting fines and jail time, not the victim of the accident. After these proceedings, an attorney will file a personal injury lawsuit in a civil court where they will fight to protect your rights and gain compensation for the injuries or illness you have suffered from.
Is There a Statute of Limitations for Filing a Civil Case?
It is important to be timely when it comes to filing a civil case, so do not hesitate to contact Gaithersburg, MD DUI lawyers as soon as you can after the accident. When you do so, they can give you an idea of how to proceed with your case prior to the criminal case finishing and what next steps you can expect.
Having Gaithersburg, MD DUI lawyers on your team as soon as possible after an accident can help to assure that deadlines are met and that your claim does not exceed the statute of limitations.
Am I Guaranteed Compensation?
Unfortunately, no. The drunk driver who caused the damage may not have adequate insurance, which means you may not get all the compensation you are entitled to. This is why it is important to invest in your own uninsured motorist insurance so you will be covered if you are in an accident with someone without an adequate policy.
What Happens If I I was Also Partially Responsible for the Accident?
Again, this is dependent of your state, but most states recognize something that is called comparative negligence. This means that even if you are partially responsible, you may be able to still collect a portion of damages that you would have collected if you were without fault.
Personal injury lawyers can act as a legal advocates for you during this troubling time while also navigating the confusing world of criminal and civil law.
For highly rated Gaithersburg, MD DUI lawyers, contact the dedicated team at Cohen & Cohen for a consultation any time of the day or night, any day of the year.
