Driving under the influence of alcohol remains one of the leading causes of traffic collisions in the United States, and the danger is especially present on Virginia roads. According to the Traffic Crash Facts report from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, approximately 4,500 people are injured in alcohol-related crashes every year. Even more troubling, drunk driving is involved in only about 5 percent of total crashes but accounts for nearly one-third of all traffic fatalities.

Drunk driving car accidents in Charlottesville can have devastating outcomes. If you were in an accident with a drunk driver, you may be entitled to compensation. The legal process can be complex, but the car accident attorneys at MichieHamlett Law Firm are here to protect your rights. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation and learn how we can help.

How DUI Crash Claims Work

While drunk driving is a criminal offense, your rights as the victim of a crash are civil in nature. Though you may get some closure knowing that the other driver was punished, your goal is to obtain monetary damages from the responsible party. The theory of negligence applies to these cases, so you are required to prove four essential elements:

  1. You must show that the other motorist had a duty to drive safely
  2. You need to establish that he or she breached this duty, which often comes through evidence of blood alcohol content or impairment
  3. You must prove that the breach of duty was a direct cause of the drunk driving accident
  4. You are required to show that you suffered losses because of being injured

The Legal Process in Virginia Drunk Driving Car Accident Claims

It is true that your remedies are through civil court, but your first step in recovering compensation is filing a claim with the other driver’s insurance company. Even if your rights seem clear after a DUI crash, you may still run into hurdles in dealing with the insurer. If the insurance company refuses to pay a fair, reasonable amount to settle your claim, you will need to go to court to obtain the monetary damages you deserve by law.

Our lawyers at the MichieHamlett Law Firm are prepared to advocate on your behalf during all stages of the legal process. We will fight for your rights by:

  • Preparing insurance claims forms;
  • Submitting essential supporting documents to the insurer;
  • Engaging in settlement negotiations; and,
  • Representing you in court.

Our Attorneys Will Protect Your Rights

Drunk driving car accidents in Charlottesville often leave victims facing devastating injuries, financial hardship, and emotional loss. At MichieHamlett Law Firm, we provide the skilled legal support needed to pursue compensation and hold negligent drivers accountable. Contact us today to schedule a free case assessment and learn how we can help.