Were you hurt in a crash with a drunk or impaired driver in Washington DC? Victims of these accidents often face serious injuries, expensive medical care, and long-lasting trauma that touches every part of daily life. DC laws are tough on drunk drivers, and you may be entitled to seek compensation for your losses and emotional pain.
Dealing with insurance and legal claims after such a life-altering event adds unneeded stress. That’s why working with a drunk driving accident lawyer is essential – it can make the process so much easier to handle. If you’re ready to get started, contact our DC personal injury attorneys to get your free consultation scheduled.
The Reasons To Work With Lightfoot Law After Being Injured in a Washington DC Drunk Driving Accident
Choosing the right accident attorney makes the aftermath of a drunk driving accident in Washington DC much more manageable. With Lightfoot Law, you don’t have to pick between impressive credentials and a team that treats you like family. Here’s why we’re the right choice:
- Benefit from the strength and strategies of a large firm, while still getting the close, personalized service usually found at much smaller practices.
- Enjoy clear, straightforward communication and quick responses
- Attorneys recognized by National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 for skill and proven results in personal injury cases.
Putting your trust in Lightfoot Law means your case will have both strong experience and real heart behind it. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation.
How a Washington DC Accident Lawyer Can Assist After You’re Injured in a Drunk Driving Accident
Being hit by a drunk driver in Washington DC brings pain, confusion, and plenty of questions about your rights. A DC accident lawyer can guide you through every stage and make sure your case is as strong as possible. Here’s how they can assist:
- Investigate the crash thoroughly by gathering police reports, BAC results, and every piece of evidence needed to prove wrongdoing on behalf of the other party.
- Calculate your full range of damages, from medical bills and therapy costs to lost wages and pain and suffering.
- Handle discussions and negotiations with insurance adjusters who often try to minimize your claim or pin some of the blame on you.
Having a car or truck accident lawyer in DC on your side is the best way to make sure your case is handled appropriately.
Your Rights as a Victim of a Drunk Driving Accident in DC
One of your primary rights as a victim is the ability to file a civil lawsuit against the drunk driver who caused your injuries. Filing a lawsuit gives you the opportunity to demand fair compensation directly from the person or people responsible.
This process usually starts by having your attorney investigate the crash, gather evidence (like police reports, BAC test results, medical records, and witness statements), and officially file a legal claim with the court. During your civil lawsuit, you can seek several forms of damages, including:
Economic Damages
You may recover compensation that is verifiable and objective. This includes:
- Medical costs and hospital bills
- Cost of rehab or physical therapy
- Lost wages if you’re unable to work
- Vehicle repairs and other property loss
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages cover intangible losses that can’t be put into a number. This often includes:
- Pain and physical suffering
- Anxiety, PTSD, or mental distress
- Loss of enjoyment of hobbies or family life due to the crash
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are a special type of financial award given in some personal injury cases on top of compensation for actual losses like medical bills or pain and suffering. These damages aren’t meant to repay you for your injuries – they are designed to punish the person or company who caused harm and to deter others from similar reckless behavior. In Washington DC, courts may award punitive damages if the drunk driver acted with an “evil motive” or deliberate disregard for the safety of others.
You may award punitive damages only if the plaintiff has proved with clear and convincing evidence:
(1) that the defendant acted with evil motive, actual malice, deliberate violence or oppression, or with intent to injure, or in willful disregard for the rights of the plaintiff;
AND
(2) that the defendant’s conduct itself was outrageous, grossly fraudulent, or reckless toward the safety of the plaintiff.
Wrongful Death Damages
If your family member is killed by a drunk driver, you can file a wrongful death action for damages like loss of companionship, funeral expenses, and lost future income.
To determine exactly what damages you’re entitled to, the best thing you can do is speak with a Washington DC wrongful death attorney as soon as possible.
Contributory Negligence – What Happens if You’re Partially Responsible For The Accident?
Washington DC uses one of the strictest approaches in the country when it comes to shared fault, known as the contributory negligence rule. If you were hurt in an accident, but an investigation shows you were even a tiny bit to blame – even just 1% – for causing the crash, DC law does not allow you to receive any compensation.
It doesn’t matter how severe your injuries are or how reckless the other driver’s actions were (even if they were extremely drunk or violated multiple laws). Your own slight mistake will block you from making any financial recovery.
That’s why it’s critical for victims to have an attorney who can show that they were completely free of fault when demanding damages after an accident in DC.
Contact Lightfoot Law To Call a Washington DC Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
Dealing with the effects of a drunk driving accident is overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it on your own. The right legal team can guide you through every step and help showcase the true impact these events have had on your life.
Make the first move to protect your future by talking to a Washington DC drunk driving accident lawyer as soon as possible. Call Lightfoot Law as soon as you’re ready to schedule a free, confidential consultation.