Drivers have a responsibility to be cautious and careful on the highway. An auto accident caused by a drunk driver can be a terrifying experience. Often, this can result in devastating injuries that may not be immediately apparent in the days or weeks following the accident. If you or a loved one has been in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, you should immediately seek counsel with a personal injury attorney. It may be difficult to think clearly in the wake of a devastating auto accident, and that is why you should put your case into the capable hands of our personal injury attorneys. We will take your case and worry about the next legal steps, so you can focus on recovering from your accident.
Understanding Drunk Driving Cases
Olympia Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys
If you have experienced a motor vehicle accident involving a drunk driver, it is crucial that you reach out to a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. You may face obstacles in trying to receive fair compensation along the way, however. Insurance companies often try to pay as little as possible in an auto accident. However, our personal injury attorneys at Ron Meyers & Associates have experience dealing with insurance companies and know how to maximize the compensation for your injuries, pain and suffering, and costly damages to your vehicle.
Free Case Evaluation
Case Results
$3,000,000
Wrongful deaths of two minor children in highway collision with truck in Thurston County.
$850,000
Hazardous waste truck collision resulting in loss of spleen, gallbladder and liver damage in King County.
$620,000
Two auto collisions resulting in spinal surgery in Thurston County.
Drunk driving accidents account for one-third of all accidents in the United States. If the driver is facing criminal charges as a result of the accident, you may be entitled to restitution for your pain and suffering. If you or a loved one is involved in a drunk driving accident, you may be eligible for compensation for the following:
- Past or current medical bills
- Repairs to your vehicle
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
- Loss earning capacity
- Loss of loved one’s life
No amount of financial compensation can make up for the loss of a loved one, or the debilitating effects of a severe injury, but at Ron Meyers & Associates, we advocate for the victims to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Compensation may offset court costs, medical bills, and necessary repairs to help you move forward. We are prepared to fight for you in court, and a civil suit may be one way to establish justice, with the aid and expertise of the lawyers of Ron Meyers & Associates.
Our Approach to Drunk Driving Accident Cases
At Ron Meyers & Associates, our approach to handling drunk driving accident cases is rooted in our commitment to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to victims and their families. We understand the devastating impact that drunk driving accidents can have on individuals and their loved ones, and we are dedicated to seeking justice and maximum compensation for our clients.
- Comprehensive Case Evaluation: When you reach out to us after a drunk driving accident, our team of experienced attorneys will conduct a thorough evaluation of your case. We will listen attentively to your story, review all relevant evidence, and assess the extent of your injuries and damages. This comprehensive evaluation allows us to determine the best course of action and build a strong legal strategy tailored to your specific needs.
- Gathering Critical Evidence: Our legal team understands the importance of gathering critical evidence to establish liability in drunk driving accident cases. We work diligently to collect police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and any other evidence that can strengthen your claim.
- Engaging with Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies after a drunk driving accident can be challenging, as they often aim to minimize payouts. We have extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies and advocating for our clients’ rights. Our goal is to secure fair compensation that adequately covers your medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any future needs resulting from the accident.
- Navigating Legal Proceedings: If necessary, we are fully prepared to take your case to court to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Our skilled trial attorneys are experienced in navigating the complexities of Washington’s legal system and will represent your interests with dedication and proficiency.
- Supportive Client Care: We understand that recovering from a drunk driving accident can be physically, emotionally, and financially challenging. Throughout the entire legal process, we provide compassionate client care and constant communication, keeping you informed about the progress of your case and addressing any concerns you may have.
- Seeking Justice and Accountability: Holding drunk drivers accountable for their negligent actions is essential to prevent future accidents and protect the community. We are committed to seeking justice for victims and ensuring that those responsible for causing harm are held responsible for their actions.
Our compassionate and client-focused approach, combined with our deep understanding of Washington’s laws and regulations, sets us apart in handling drunk driving accident cases. We strive to alleviate the burden on our clients and guide them towards a positive resolution, allowing them to focus on healing and rebuilding their lives.
How Ron Meyers & Associates Can Help with Drunk Driving Cases
Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys Serving Olympia & Thurston County
Ron Meyers & Associates have more than 30 years of experience fighting for justice for clients just like you. Our team of personal injury attorneys is here to support you and your loved ones, and make sure you are appropriately represented in a court of law. We will help you outline your options, explain next steps to you, and we will represent your interests in court. We will aid you in the legal process towards fighting for the compensation you deserve.
If you were injured as the result of a drunk driver, call 360-459-5600 today for a free consultation about your case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drunk Driving Cases
After a drunk driving accident, your safety and well-being should be your top priority. Seek medical attention for yourself and others involved in the accident if needed. Call the police to report the accident and wait for them to arrive. Collect contact information from witnesses, take photos of the accident scene, and do not admit fault. Once you have addressed immediate concerns, consult a personal injury attorney to understand your legal rights and options.
Yes, as a passenger injured in a drunk driving accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. Even if the driver of the vehicle you were in was impaired, you can pursue a personal injury claim against the negligent driver. Additionally, you may also be able to seek compensation from other liable parties depending on the circumstances of the accident.
Liability in a drunk driving accident case is determined based on negligence. If the intoxicated driver’s actions were the primary cause of the accident and your injuries, they may be considered legally liable for the damages. Evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, breathalyzer test results, and other factors, will be crucial in establishing liability.
In a drunk driving accident claim, you may be eligible to recover various damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and emotional distress. In cases of severe injuries or wrongful death, additional compensation may be available to cover long-term medical care, loss of earning capacity, and funeral expenses.
Yes, Washington has a statute of limitations that sets a deadline for filing personal injury claims, including those related to drunk driving accidents. Generally, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim. However, exceptions may apply in certain situations, so it’s essential to consult an attorney promptly to ensure your rights are protected.
Yes, even if the drunk driver was criminally charged and convicted, you can still pursue a separate civil claim for compensation. Criminal charges are brought by the state to hold the driver accountable for breaking the law. A civil claim seeks to recover damages for your injuries and losses and is separate from any criminal proceedings.
Hiring a personal injury attorney is crucial to protect your rights and interests after a drunk driving accident. An experienced attorney will navigate the legal complexities, negotiate with insurance companies, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf. They will advocate for your best interests, ensuring you receive the maximum compensation possible for your injuries and losses.
Before accepting any settlement offered by the drunk driver’s insurance company, it’s crucial to consult with a personal injury attorney. Insurance companies may try to settle quickly and for a lower amount than you may be entitled to. An attorney can evaluate the offer, assess the full extent of your damages, and negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair and just settlement.
Yes, you can still pursue a claim even if the at-fault driver was uninsured or underinsured. In such cases, you may be able to seek compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage if you have it on your auto insurance policy. Consult with an attorney to explore all available options for recovering compensation.
Not all drunk driving accident cases go to court. Many cases are resolved through negotiations with insurance companies or alternative dispute resolution methods. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney may advise pursuing a lawsuit and taking the case to court. Rest assured that our attorneys are experienced trial advocates if your case requires litigation.
Yes, you may still have a valid claim even if you were partially at fault for the accident. Washington follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. As long as you are less than 50% at fault, you can still pursue a claim for damages.
Yes, in certain cases, you may be eligible to seek punitive damages in addition to compensatory damages. Punitive damages are intended to punish the at-fault party for their reckless behavior, such as driving under the influence. However, punitive damages are awarded at the court’s discretion and require clear evidence of gross negligence or intentional misconduct.
To strengthen your claim, document as much information as possible, including taking photos of the accident scene and any visible injuries, obtaining contact information from witnesses, and preserving any evidence related to the drunk driver’s impairment. Seeking immediate medical attention is also crucial, as it creates a link between your injuries and the accident. Hiring an experienced attorney early in the process can significantly benefit your claim.
Criminal charges against the drunk driver do not prevent you from pursuing a civil claim for damages. While the criminal case and your civil claim are separate legal proceedings, a conviction for DUI can strengthen your civil case by establishing the driver’s negligence. However, it’s essential to consult with an attorney to understand how the criminal case may impact your civil claim.
Yes, you can still pursue a claim even if the drunk driver flees the scene. Hit-and-run accidents can complicate the process, but an experienced personal injury attorney can help you explore other avenues for identifying the responsible party, such as relying on witnesses, surveillance footage, or seeking compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage.