Despite nationwide educational campaigns, police checkpoints, and some of the strictest laws in place, drunk driving remains a grave issue across South Carolina.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 30 people lose their lives every day in drunk driving-related crashes. The total number of fatal traffic accidents due to drunk driving has increased by 14% since 2023, and these numbers show no signs of declining.
If you have been affected by a drunk driving accident, you understand the devastation it can cause. Statistics cannot convey the emotional, physical, and financial losses that individuals and families endure after a serious drunk driving accident.
An experienced car accident attorney specializing in drunk driving accidents can help you and your family recover from the devastating effects of an accident that was not your fault. Drunk driving accidents result from another driver’s reckless and negligent actions, and you should not be left to carry the financial burden alone.
Why Do You Need Our Goose Creek Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys?
Drinking and driving should never be mixed. If you wish to have a great time, just hire a cab, as drunk driving accident statistics are shocking.
Every year in South Carolina, nearly 13,000 fatal motor accidents occur, with almost one-third of these cases involving a driver under the influence.
Despite widespread awareness campaigns, people still end up driving under the influence, resulting in over 700,000 injuries due to motor vehicle accidents. It is heartbreaking to witness so many deaths and injuries caused by willful ignorance.
This ignorance can prove very costly if your family member or loved one is involved in a drunk driving crash. Apart from the physical pain and emotional trauma, you may also face financial losses due to huge medical bills and lost earnings.
While nothing can undo the physical and emotional damage, the financial burdens can be eased by hiring our expert drunk-driving accident lawyers. The negligence of an intoxicated driver can lead to devastating losses, and you should not have to bear these alone.
What Difference Can Our Goose Creek Drunk Driving Accident Law Firm Offer Victims?
Injuries sustained in drunk driving accidents can prevent victims from returning to work, leading to a loss of income and mounting medical bills. Dealing with insurance companies alone is challenging, as they often aim to minimize payouts, leaving you inadequately compensated for your injuries without proper legal representation.
The laws surrounding drunk driving accidents are complicated, and it is not easy for a layperson, especially one who has endured severe trauma, to manage these complexities. Most insurance companies are reluctant to provide substantial compensation unless an attorney is involved.
Hiring our Goose Creek drunk driving accident law firm can significantly improve the outcome of your case for several reasons:
- Thorough Investigation and Documentation: We ensure the accident is properly investigated and documented, gathering crucial evidence against the guilty party.
- Insurance Company Expertise: We understand the aspects of insurance company operations and can negotiate better settlements for maximum recovery.
- Legal Experience: We have extensive experience in handling drunk driving accident cases and can advocate for fairer and more substantial claims.
- Civil Court Actions: If necessary, they can file a civil court motion to secure proper damages for your injuries.
Victims of accidents caused by negligent drunk drivers can seek compensation for medical expenses (transportation, hospitalization, and medication costs), rehabilitation costs, lost income, potential future income loss, pain and suffering, and punitive damages. Those who suffer serious injuries may face life-changing consequences that prevent them from returning to work and reduce their quality of life, often enduring long-term physical and emotional pain.
The challenges faced by drunk driving accident victims—medical bills, lost wages, long-term care, and the inability to resume their previous lifestyle—can exacerbate an already traumatic experience, especially when dealing with insurance companies to obtain fair compensation.
If you have been injured or lost a loved one to a drunk driver, contact us to discuss the legal remedies and options available to compensate you for your injuries.
We understand how insurance companies operate and strategize effectively to obtain maximum recovery through skilled negotiation. As our experienced drunk driving accident lawyers, we never back down from the courtroom, especially when pursuing the compensation you need and deserve to move forward with your life.
The statistics do not capture the shattered lives left by such senseless accidents. Families trying to rebuild after the loss of a loved one face emotional challenges at every turn, and the added financial burden can be devastating.
The person who chose to drive drunk may face jail time, license suspension, or fines, but these punishments do not offset the pain and suffering experienced by their victims.
Whether you have been injured or lost a loved one in a drunk driving accident, our car accident lawyers and staff in Goose Creek have extensive experience helping clients throughout the area obtain the compensation they need to move forward. Contact us to learn about your legal options.
What Compensation Can You Pursue in a Drunk Driving Accident Claim?
At the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm, we understand that no amount of money can make up for the pain and suffering experienced by the victim of a drunk driver or their loved ones. Our experienced DUI attorneys are committed to holding the liable party responsible for your devastating loss.
Some of the losses for which you may seek compensation include:
- Medical Bills
- Lost Wages (including future earnings)
- Pain and Suffering
- Emotional Distress
- Funeral Expenses (in the case of fatalities)
- Loss of Companionship
In addition to these compensatory damages, “punitive” damages may also be sought in a drunk driving case. Punitive damages serve as a punishment to a driver guilty of gross negligence and act as a deterrent to prevent them and others from driving drunk again.
After a DUI collision, recovering damages might present additional difficulties, particularly if the at-fault driver is prosecuted. Our lawyers have expertise advocating for victims of intoxicated driving.
We will assist you in resolving the complicated legal maze surrounding your case and liaising with the relevant insurance providers. If you or someone you love has been the victim of a DUI accident, please contact us today for a free consultation
Common Damages Awarded Victims of Drunk Driving
Compensation for victims of drunk driving varies based on the severity of the accident and its long-term impacts. A specialized drunk driving accident lawyer can evaluate your case and provide a well-informed estimate of your claim’s potential worth.
You must note that you cannot include those items in your claim if you are receiving victim restitution.
Generally, drunk driving accident compensation includes, but is not limited to, the following economic damages:
- Medical Expenses: Costs for ambulance services, surgery, hospital stays, lab fees, anesthesia, home health care, rehabilitation, physical therapy, prescriptions, and more.
- Durable Medical Goods: Expenses include wheelchairs, crutches, splints, bandages, etc.
- Lost Income: Loss of salary, wages, and retirement contributions.
- Future Medical Care: Costs for daily living assistance, home modifications, rehabilitation, and ongoing physical therapy.
- Future Lost Wages: Future salary losses and lost income directly related to the accident.
Non-economic damages, which are usually not included in victim restitution but can be recovered through a civil claim, include:
- Pain: Physical pain from the accident and recovery process.
- Suffering: Emotional and psychological suffering from injuries.
- Mental Anguish: Emotional distress and trauma resulting from the accident.
- Disability: Permanent or temporary disability caused by accident.
- Disfigurement: Physical disfigurement resulting from injuries.
In the tragic event that an accident results in the loss of a loved one, the victim’s family may be entitled to additional damages called “Wrongful Death Damages.” Our drunk driving accident lawyer is a critical advocate for families who have lost a loved one, helping them pursue these additional damages.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a drunk driving accident, seeking the expertise of a specialized lawyer can significantly impact the compensation you receive.
What You Need to Know When Filing a Claim?
In Goose Creek, you have two years to file your case. It’s important to know that insurance companies often try to settle for a lesser amount.
We are familiar with their tactics and are prepared to take your case to a jury verdict if necessary. Juries tend to agree that drunk drivers should be punished, often leading to larger payouts when cases win in court.
Our mission as drunk-driving accident attorneys is to secure the highest compensation possible for you, no matter what it takes.
To strengthen your claim, follow these steps after a drunk driving accident:
- Obtain the Drunk Driver’s Information: Collect the driver’s license number, license plate number, insurance company name, and policy number.
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Document all injuries and treatments thoroughly.
- Document Work Absences: Request a doctor’s note for every day your injuries force you to miss work.
- Get a Copy of the Police Accident Report: This report is crucial for your claim.
- Hire an Experienced Attorney: Engage a lawyer who specializes in drunk driving accident cases to guide you through the process.
By taking these steps, you can build a strong claim and increase your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been involved in a drunk driving accident, contact us for expert legal assistance.
What to Do if You Are in an Accident With a Drunk Driver?
Being involved in a drunk driving accident can be incredibly stressful for victims. Intoxicated driving often results in severe injuries and long-term repercussions, even if you were not at fault.
If you are in an accident with a drunk driver or another reckless driver, there are essential steps you should take to preserve your legal rights.
Do Not Give a Recorded Statement
Avoid giving a recorded statement to anyone, including police officers or insurance companies, until you have met with a DUI accident attorney. Any statement you make can be used against you in the claims process or if the case goes to trial.
Answer only what is asked of you, and refrain from making assumptions about the incident.
Report the Accident
Even though you might be in shock after the accident, it is crucial to call the police immediately. This ensures an official incident report, which is necessary when filing a car accident claim.
Gather Evidence
After a drunk driving accident, your DUI accident lawyer will need to gather evidence to support your personal injury case and demonstrate the negligence of the drunk driver. Helpful evidence includes photos of the accident scene, police reports, contact information of witnesses, and your medical reports.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, always seek medical attention following a drunk driving accident. Failing to get checked out can make it difficult to collect future medical expenses if injuries manifest later.
Document Everything
Start a journal or folder to collect all documents related to the accident. Record your injuries, medical bills from treatment, and lost time from work.
This documentation will be critical for your case.
Call a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
If you are involved in a drunk driving accident, contact a personal injury lawyer experienced in handling such cases. At the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm, we help drunk driving accident victims communicate with insurance companies.
We help to seek compensation for medical bills and related expenses and pursue wrongful death claims if the collision results in death.
Establishing an attorney-client relationship allows our legal team to guide you through the legal process and seek justice. Contact the drunk driving accident attorneys at the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm for a free consultation today.
What Is My Drunk Driving Crash Case Worth?
One of the most common questions is about the value of a drunk driving crash claim. No two cases are alike, and the value of your claim depends on numerous factors.
Our attorneys are here to help you analyze these factors. Our investigation typically includes:
- Background Checks: Assessing the history of the involved parties.
- Financial Responsibility: Evaluating the financial assets and responsibilities of the at-fault driver.
- Vehicle Ownership: Determining if a business or commercial entity owned the vehicle.
- Insurance Coverage: Reviewing the amount and terms of available insurance policies.
- Excess or Umbrella Insurance: Check for additional coverage beyond the primary policy.
- Assets and Records Check: Conducting a thorough examination of the at-fault driver’s assets and records.
- Liquor Liability Laws: Investigating whether any liquor liability laws were violated.
- Legal Research: Research applicable state and federal laws.
- Criminal Prosecution Outcome: Considering the outcome of any state attorney prosecution and criminal charges filed.
When you come for a free consultation, we will discuss these case factors with you and explain how they may apply to your situation. The earlier you contact an attorney, the better.
These cases can be complex, and early involvement helps preserve significant evidence and ensures you don’t miss any statutes of limitations.
Contact us today for a detailed case evaluation so we can schedule your free consultation. Our experienced team is ready to help you handle the complications of your claim and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Common Types of Accidents Caused by Drunk Drivers
Drunk driving accounts for a significant percentage of car accidents in South Carolina. Unfortunately, accidents involving drunk drivers are often severe due to their impaired reaction times, which can lead to high-speed collisions and serious injuries.
Common Collisions Caused by Drunk Drivers in Goose Creek
Here are some of the most common types of collisions caused by drunk drivers in Goose Creek:
- Rear-End Accidents: A rear-end accident occurs when one vehicle crashes into the back of another. These accidents can be particularly severe as the driver in front may not have time to brace for the impact or even realize that the vehicle behind them is approaching at full speed. Rear-end collisions are especially common when a drunk driver is also engaging in other dangerous behaviors like speeding or texting while driving.
- Pedestrian Accidents: Pedestrian accidents occur when a moving vehicle strikes a pedestrian. Drivers under the influence often have reduced awareness of their surroundings, making these accidents more likely, especially at night. Drunk driving rates increase after dark, and the reduced visibility at night can make it harder to notice pedestrians.
- Head-On Accidents: A head-on accident happens when two or more vehicles collide front-to-front. These accidents are often severe due to the combined speed of both vehicles at the point of impact. Head-on collisions usually occur when a driver swerves into oncoming traffic, a common occurrence for drivers under the influence who may not realize they are drifting into the wrong lane until it’s too late.
These are just a few examples of the types of accidents that can result from drunk driving.
Drunk driving is considered a form of negligence, meaning the driver can be held responsible if it is determined they were under the influence. Even if a driver is just minimally over the legal limit of 0.08 percent, they can still be liable for any damages caused.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident caused by a drunk driver, contact our Goose Creek drunk driving accident lawyers for a free consultation.
Penalties for a South Carolina DUI
The table below shows the penalties you will face if convicted under South Carolina DUI laws. These penalties are imposed only after a prosecutor has proven your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt and you have been found guilty of an impaired driving offense.
Penalties become progressively more severe for repeat offenders.
| Offense | Fine | Imprisonment | Driver’s License Suspension |
| First | Up to $400 | 48 hours to 30 days | 6 months |
| Second | $2,100 to $5,100 | Five days to 1 year | One year |
| Third | $3,800 to $6,300 | 60 days to 3 years | Two years (4 years if the third offense is within five years of the first offense) |
For a fourth or subsequent offense, you will face between one and five years of imprisonment and permanent revocation of your driver’s license.
Other consequences of a conviction for impaired driving under South Carolina DUI laws may include the required installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle, which tests your BAC before and during driving, as well as mandatory completion of drug and alcohol treatment programs.
If you or a loved one is facing DUI charges, it is important to seek legal advice. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your options.
How Our Goose Creek Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers Help You!
Driving drunk not only puts the driver’s life at risk but also endangers the lives of other drivers and passengers. The injuries sustained in a DUI accident can have lifelong consequences, including severe injuries, chronic pain, disability, and even death.
When a car vehicle accident occurs where a driver has exceeded the legal alcohol limit, many victims are unaware of their rights.
That’s where the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm can help you. We take on intoxicated drivers and fight to get you the compensation needed to move forward.
Our drunk driving accident lawyers advocate for the rights of people injured or killed in car accidents caused by impaired drivers. For a free case evaluation, contact us today.
Contact us at (864) 664-3865 or schedule a complimentary initial consultation via email to discuss your Goose distracted driving accident case to ensure your rights are protected and to start your journey towards the compensation you deserve.
FAQs:
- Can You Seek Compensation if There Are Criminal Charges?
Yes. In most cases, drunk drivers are arrested and charged criminally.
If found guilty, they face consequences such as jail time, fines, and loss of driving privileges. These penalties, however, focus on punishing the driver, not compensating the victim.
As part of the criminal proceedings, the offender may be required to pay “victim restitution,” which may cover some or most of the economic damages. However, victim restitution does not preclude you from seeking further compensation through a personal injury claim for other damages, including non-economic ones.
It is important to note that what the judge orders as victim restitution must be excluded from your civil suit. You can only be compensated once for the same damages.
For example, if the offender is ordered to pay you for your lost wages, you cannot seek compensation for lost wages in your civil claim.
- Can You Settle Your Claim Without an Attorney?
You are not required to have a lawyer file a drunk driving accident personal injury claim; however, it may be in your best interest to do so. A successful accident claim depends on many factors and involves many moving parts.
One mistake in filing, a missed deadline, or a claim lacking sufficient evidence can result in you missing out on the fair compensation you deserve.
Having a lawyer handle your claim can help you avoid costly mistakes, annoying delays, and more time off work. A lawyer allows you to focus on healing and putting the pieces of your life back together while they protect your rights and best interests.
Besides the mental relief and reduced stress hiring an attorney can bring, some studies show a tangible benefit. A study by the Insurance Research Council reports that accident victims who hire an attorney to handle their case may be awarded a settlement 3 ½ times greater than someone without an attorney’s help.
- How Can a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Help You?
Hiring a lawyer to work on your claim can be the first step towards receiving the compensation you deserve for your losses. Every accident claim is different and is handled according to the victim’s needs.
Lawyers often provide the following services as needed:
- Case Evaluation: This initial meeting is typically free and allows you to explain your situation, ask questions, and receive a recommendation on your next steps. If, after the evaluation, it is determined that the proceeding is not in your best interest, you are under no obligation to do so.
- Investigation: Your team will look into the details of your case to ensure they have all the facts.
- Evidence Collection: All evidence proving negligence on the offender’s part and justifies the amount you seek will be compiled and presented.
- Insurance Negotiation: Your lawyer will protect you from lowball offers made by insurance companies hoping to settle quickly for less than you deserve. Lawyers look out for your best interests and are not intimidated by fast-talking insurance adjusters.
Court Representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached and it is in your best interest, your lawyer will file a lawsuit and represent you in all aspects of a trial.
