DUI Incidents in Nevada
According to data from the state Department of Transportation, there were nearly 3,000 alcohol-related car accidents in Nevada in 2010. Although this number has decreased compared to previous years, it still represents a significant burden for victims and their families in terms of finances and emotional well-being.
Moreover, drunk driving accidents tend to result in more severe consequences than other types of accidents. Alcohol is a factor in approximately 27-37% of the approximately 250 fatal crashes that occur in Nevada each year. Serious drunk driving accidents often lead to criminal charges. While criminal courts determine guilt and assign appropriate punishments according to state laws, filing a lawsuit in civil court (often with the assistance of a Las Vegas DUI attorney) allows victims to seek compensation for the damages they have suffered.
This is where Gladiator Injury Law can assist. We help individuals who have experienced the consequences of accidents involving drunk drivers to recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses associated with their recovery. Approximately one-third of car accidents in Las Vegas involve drunk drivers. Despite the emphasis on driving sober, some motorists still choose to endanger themselves and others by driving under the influence.
If you find yourself in a car accident and suspect that the other driver may be intoxicated, it is natural to feel angry. After all, DUI accidents are preventable and represent a severe form of negligence. However, knowing what steps to take if you’re involved in an accident with a drunk driver can be overwhelming.
Actions to Take If You’re in an Accident with a Drunk Driver:
If you’re in a car accident and suspect that the other driver may be under the influence, consider the following steps:
Contact the police.
1.Drunk driving is a criminal offense, and it is crucial to report the incident to the police. The police will gather evidence to support charges against the driver. Promptly contacting the police is essential to prevent the other driver from escaping and potentially causing harm to others. Alcohol can leave the system within a few hours, so timely police involvement ensures accurate blood, breath, or alcohol testing to establish the other driver’s intoxication.
Seek medical assistance.
2. Obtain a comprehensive medical evaluation as soon as possible. If you sustain severe injuries, call 911 for immediate medical attention. Timely medical care can save your life in critical situations and prevent complications even in less severe cases. Seeking medical help also ensures documentation of your injuries, which can serve as evidence if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.
Gather evidence.
3. Take photos at the accident scene and obtain a copy of the police report, including information on the other driver’s blood alcohol levels. Collect contact and insurance details from the driver, as well as contact information from any witnesses. Keep copies of medical reports and photos of your injuries. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be when working with your attorney.
Consult a personal injury attorney.
4. The other driver’s insurance company will likely aim to minimize the amount they pay you. To ensure you pursue the full compensation you may be entitled to, seek advice and representation from an attorney experienced in handling auto injury cases. If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, an attorney can also negotiate with your insurance company to secure compensation for property damage, medical bills, and other related expenses that may be causing concern after the accident.
Can I Sue if a Drunk Driver Hits My Car?
If you have been injured in a car accident involving a drunk driver or have suffered injuries or property damage due to their actions, you may have a legal claim. The drunk driver may face criminal charges, but you may also be eligible to pursue a civil lawsuit.
To determine your eligibility, reach out to Gladiator Injury Law. One of our personal injury attorneys will discuss your potential case with you, providing clear guidance on the necessary steps to protect your rights. If you choose to work with Gladiator Injury Law, we will handle the details of your claim, allowing you to spend time with your family and focus on recovering from your injuries.
Filing a Lawsuit: What’s Involved?
Drunk driving accident lawsuits typically target the responsible driver and/or their insurance company. While other types of accidents may undergo arbitration, where a judge orders a settlement outside of court, drunk driving accidents can be exempted from this process due to public policy considerations.
This exemption often enables victims to receive higher settlements compared to negotiated settlements. However, the decision to avoid arbitration depends on the specifics of each case. When strong evidence, such as blood alcohol concentration (BAC) testing results from a criminal trial, is available, it can be crucial in maximizing your compensation.
At Gladiator Injury Law, we assess each case individually to determine whether pursuing an exemption from arbitration is the right course of action. During your initial consultation with our attorneys, we will review the facts of your case and provide an honest assessment of your options. We will not pressure you into pursuing a strategy you’re uncomfortable with, but we will ensure that you have the necessary information to make an informed decision.