DUI/DWI Accident Injury Lawyers in Virginia Beach
Your Drunk Driving Accident Advocates
Drunk driving remains a major cause of traffic fatalities in the US, despite numerous warnings and campaigns. Those who operate vehicles while under the influence of alcohol not only put themselves in danger but also jeopardize the safety of others. The consequences of such irresponsible actions can be devastating, leading to physical and emotional distress for those impacted. However, if you have been injured by a drunk driving incident, you can demand financial compensation.
Establishing civil liability in a drunk driving accident can be a complex process. Different states have different laws pertaining to the admissibility of a defendant’s impairment or intoxication. Virginia and North Carolina have different state-specific standards for admitting evidence of driving under the influence, and the consideration and evaluation of punitive damages.
For example: in Virginia, in order for the jury to consider statutory punitive damages, the DUI defendant driver must have a blood Read More....
Establishing civil liability in a drunk driving accident can be a complex process. Different states have different laws pertaining to the admissibility of a defendant’s impairment or intoxication. Virginia and North Carolina have different state-specific standards for admitting evidence of driving under the influence, and the consideration and evaluation of punitive damages.
For example: in Virginia, in order for the jury to consider statutory punitive damages, the DUI defendant driver must have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.15 or higher at the time of the accident, while in North Carolina, a BAC of 0.08 or higher by the DWI defendant driver is enough for the issue of punitive damages to go to the jury. In certain such cases, it’s critical to have an expert toxicologist or pharmacologist to analyze the evidence and provide opinions within the required degree of probability or certainty. These legal intricacies and complexities can make it difficult to get the full compensation you deserve. Therefore, it’s essential to consult an experienced drunk driving lawyer to protect your rights and help you get the financial restitution you need.
Causes of Drunk Driving Accidents
Wrongful Death by DUI/ DWI Driver
Losing a family member in a drunk driving incident is a tragic event. Although no amount of money will ever replace the loss of your family member, the family is usually left picking up the pieces from their loss. The family members may be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim or lawsuit. A successful wrongful death claim can recover damages for medical and burial expenses, loss of companionship, and the emotional pain endured by the beneficiaries. Additionally, it can also recover funds that the deceased would have contributed to the family’s income (dependents) had the deceased family member survived.
It’s important to note that wrongful death laws vary by state. Both Virginia and North Carolina have specific statutes that determine who are the beneficiaries and what damages can be recovered–even the process determining who can bring the claim or lawsuit (personal representative) and who can recover (the classes of beneficiaries). The personal representative who is authorized by the court to bring the claim or lawsuit may or may not be a beneficiary of any wrongful settlement or judgment. In Virginia, a individual can qualify as personal representative for the sole purpose of administering the wrongful death claim. In North Carolina, an administrator of the estate handles not only the death claim, but all matters of the estate.
A Record of Experience and Professional Recognition
Our Team’s Experience Has Earned Recognition From Respected Legal Organizations
More Than $100 Million Secured for Clients
Every case is different, but our results demonstrate the experience and preparation we bring to personal injury cases.
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$1,600,000 Car Accident
Settlement for vehicle accident involving serious groin and shoulder injuries requiring surgeries.
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$750,000 Tractor-Trailer Collision
Settlement from a tractor-trailer collision resulting in a concussion/head injury in North Carolina.
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$535,000 Parking Lot Collision
Norfolk jury verdict on exacerbation/aggravation of preexisting condition from parking lot collision.
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$495,000 Commercial Vehicle Accident
Settlement from a rear-end automobile collision by a commercial vehicle.
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$450,000 Premises Liability
Settlement from fall on outside defective stair at vacation rental home resulting in surgery for broken leg/ankle in Outer Banks, North Carolina.
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$400,000 Pedestrian Accident
Settlement for pedestrian hit by a truck resulting in pelvic fractures causing bilateral hip pain and hematomas/seromas to lower legs in North Carolina.