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In recent years, Michigan has seen an annual average of over 9,000 drunk driving accidents. Drunk driving makes accidents both more likely to happen and more catastrophic when they do. Victims of drunk driving accidents suffer severe injuries that lead to excruciating pain, overwhelming medical bills, and debilitating emotional trauma – and they have the right to hold drunk drivers accountable and seek compensation for these losses. Working with an experienced Michigan drunk driving accident attorney can optimize your chances for success as you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Civil Lawsuit
In the context of drunk driving accidents, a civil lawsuit allows victims to seek compensation from the drunk driver responsible for causing the accident and their injuries. Unlike criminal cases, which are prosecuted by the government and may result in fines or imprisonment for the drunk driver, civil lawsuits are initiated by the injured party, who seeks money in the form of damages for the harm the drunk driver caused them.
If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver, you may be able to seek the following types of damages:
- Economic Damages – These compensate for tangible losses, such as medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and other out-of-pocket costs resulting from the accident.
- Non-Economic Damages – These damages cover non-monetary losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life, and other subjective harms.
- Exemplary Damages – In cases where the drunk driver’s conduct was particularly egregious or reckless, a jury may award exemplary damages to the victim as a means of compensating the victim for injured feelings caused by the egregiousness of a defendant’s conduct.
Generally, the statute of limitations for car accident claims in Michigan requires you to file a lawsuit within three years from the accident date.
Dram Shop Liability
Dram shop laws hold establishments that sell or serve alcohol, such as bars, restaurants, and liquor stores, responsible for injuries caused by their intoxicated patrons. The purpose of these laws is to encourage establishments to serve alcohol responsibly and prevent overserving individuals who may pose a risk to others on the road.
In Michigan, dram shop claims can be brought against establishments that served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person or a minor who subsequently caused an accident after leaving the establishment. If a dram shop claim is successful, victims may be entitled to recover compensation for economic and non-economic losses from the at-fault establishment.
Importance of Legal Representation
Drunk driving accident cases can be highly complex, involving various legal issues and challenges. Gathering evidence, dealing with insurance companies, and proving liability can be daunting for individuals who lack a thorough knowledge of Michigan personal injury law. The process can feel especially overwhelming for victims who are still recovering from their injuries.
As such, retaining an experienced personal injury attorney is essential in drunk driving accident cases. An attorney will have a comprehensive understanding of the relevant laws and legal processes, as well as the skills and resources necessary to build a solid case. They can inform you of your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, handle all legal proceedings, and effectively pursue the maximum compensation on your behalf.
Injured in a Drunk Driving Accident? Contact Davis Law Center
The aftermath of a drunk driving accident can be overwhelming, but you do not have to go through it alone. A skilled Michigan car accident attorney can give you the support and advocacy you need at this critical time, pursuing fair compensation while you take the time to recover.
The seasoned team at Davis Law Center has been recovering compensation for injury victims across Michigan for over 30 years. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us get to work at no upfront cost to you.