A few drinks can be too much to handle. Especially if you are on the receiving end of a drunk driving incident. What may seem like innocent fun to the driver at fault, can quickly turn into a difficult and life-altering experience for you.
While the at-fault driver will face the criminal justice system, your own recovery, physical, emotional and financial, might be left out of the picture. With a personal injury claim, you may be granted the meaningful compensation you deserve.
The justice you need the most
It is important to understand that a drunk driving crash can lead to two different legal processes: a criminal case and a civil case.
In the criminal case, the state seeks to punish the drunk driver for breaking the law. This often results in fines, jail time and license suspension. This is about public safety and holding offenders accountable.
But to help pay your medical bills and rebuild your life, you must file a civil case, specifically, a personal injury claim. This allows you to seek compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company or from the driver directly, if necessary.
Virginia also allows for punitive damages in cases of gross negligence, such as drunk driving. These damages are designed to punish the reckless behavior and send a message that this kind of conduct will not be tolerated.
How compensation can help you recover
A personal injury claim may cover:
- Emergency medical treatment and hospital bills: Ambulance, ER visits, surgeries and hospital stays
- Rehabilitation or therapy: Physical therapy and mental health counseling
- Lost Income from missed work: Wages lost now and in the future if your ability to work is affected
- Pain and suffering: Physical pain and daily discomfort caused by your injuries
- Emotional distress: Trauma-related issues like PTSD, anxiety or fear of driving
- Punitive damages: Extra financial penalties designed to hold at-fault drivers accountable
The compensation you are entitled to is designed to help you rebuild your life after the disruption caused by a drunk driver.
There is no need to settle for “sorry”
You should not have to carry the financial weight of someone else’s reckless decision. You have the right to seek compensation that fully reflects what you endured, and you do not have to face this journey alone. Consulting an experienced Virginia personal injury attorney is the next crucial step. The right lawyer can protect your rights, gather key evidence, negotiate on your behalf and help you move forward with healing and peace of mind.
